Be Strong in the Lord
By George Stroh
May 17, 2021
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. (Ephesians 6:10)
In 1962, I was in the Nebraska Highschool State Wrestling Tournament. I had won the first two rounds and the winner of this next semi-final match would be wrestling for the State championship. My opponent was a heavy favorite to win. I started the match rather intimidated by his reputation and lacking confidence in my chances of winning. Halfway through the match I was behind by an almost insurmountable 8 points. However, I realized that he was not that much better than me and, no longer intimidated, my confidence grew. Unfortunately, it was too late. I ended up losing that match by just 1 point and lost the chance to wrestle for the State championship. With all due respect for my worthy opponent that day, I believe that my initial lack of confidence and being intimidated cost me the victory.
In this life we all have many intimidating struggles, including spiritual struggles against the devil and his spiritual forces. We are certainly no match against him in our own strength. When we struggle against the temptations, trials and schemes of the devil, we should never be intimidated by him, nor overly self-confident, but rather be confident in the Lord; Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. (Ephesians 6:10, 11)
As Christians, we will always be victorious in the Lord. Our confidence is in the strength of His might; Oh give us help against the adversary, for deliverance by man is in vain. Through God we will do valiantly, and it is He who shall tread down our adversaries. (Psalm 108:12, 13)
Maranatha!