How We Can “Stand Firm” and Be BETTER MEN

The Bible says for men to “stand firm in the faith.”  What does that mean?  Have you ever heard the phrase, “If you don’t stand for something you’ll fall for anything?” Men are falling for anything and everything and standing for almost nothing – and the collateral damage around us is sickening.  It’s hard to believe that we can make a mess for so many just because we don’t stand firm, but it’s true.

So how do we stand firm?   Here’s a start:

1. Stand firm by taking God’s Word SERIOUSLY and learning the responsibilities of following Christ.   “…for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.” 1 Thess. 3:8   Does “the Book” mean anything to you of relevance?  The NFL rookie has to SLEEP with his playbook, because if he doesn’t recognize the play, he’s cut from the team. The builder always has the set of blueprints on his person – he builds a weird house without it.  What makes us different?  Men, get serious about God’s Word.  Read it. Study it. Remember it.

 2. Stand firm by listening to the spiritual JOURNEY of older men and learning from them. “…stand firm and hold to the traditions you were taught…” 2 Thess. 2:15  There’s a great cry today for mentors.  Older men, who are you mentoring?  Younger men, who are you asking questions of?  Here’s what I don’t get – why would we not want to learn those lessons?  Have lunch, or breakfast – with someone older than you.  Learn.  Get up some courage and ask a guy to talk to you.

 3. Stand firm by having your own CONVICTIONS about Scriptural issues. “To his own master he will stand or fall; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.” Romans 14:4  Do you know what you believe about stuff?  While, “I believe what my preacher believes” is appreciated, it doesn’t do you much good on the battleground of the mind in spiritual conflict.  YOU find out what YOU believe – and stand there.

4. Stand firm by having mature CONDUCT. “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ…” Phil. 1:27  My greatest moment of spiritual growth as a young man was the day I saw myself in the “fool” of the book of Proverbs.  I grew up a little that day, because the Bible convicted me of immature behavior.  I stood a little taller after that – and gained a little more respect.  You’re not a child.  Act like a man.

We need to stand firm.  The next generation is watching – and the present generation is looking for leaders.  Stand firm!