Dear Ones:
“Steady” is a word that we do not use much these days, perhaps because it is so rare to see one steadily going forward, and this, in spite of life’s “surprises.” As far as I understand, the word is not used in the Bible, but there is a similar word that carries an enormous significance, with great ramifications: “steadfast.” In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he writes: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, BE YE STEDFAST, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain.” (1 Cor. 15:58) How is it that the Apostle could instruct the Corinthians to BE such, and thus, hold them to such a high standard, in the face of difficulty and challenge? The answer is very simple, “…But thanks be to God, which GIVES us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (v. 57) The stedfastness is born out of this victory of Christ. In essence, it IS the stedfastness of Christ that is grasped, and lived by.
What is the key to knowing this stedfastness, and appropriating it? Many years ago when we lived in France, I remember the director of a Christian work, telling me that he had to go back to his house, and get out his Bible, to do as he put it, “…to see clearly.” This man had been a missionary in Africa for many years, and was now directing this particular Christian work in France. He had learned from many years of experience, that it is IN the word of God that the basis of all true Christian experience has its origin and essence. It is that printed, and objective Word of truth, that leads us to the Eternal Word who IS truth and power. If we are to grasp the signficance, means, and practical application of living this life of stedfastness, then we must always go to the written word.
Every one of us is different from the other, and God alone knows how to speak to each of us concerning the different needs that we have. God knows how to reveal to us what we need to know about stedfastness, “unmoveableness.” And He knows how to meet us so that we KNOW this in our lives. So, today, may we seek HIM in His word, and learn at His feet, the profound meaning of stedfastness, trusting Him for the full expression of it in our lives as we “abound” in His work, according to His purposes.
Sure do love you guys…Dad