Forging Ahead: Paul’s Exhortation
A healthy reminder to keep fixed in mind
As we move through life we can easily forget our roots. What we are meant to do. The mundane wears on us, and the many demands of our lives can bury our true purpose.
I came across a final greeting from Paul to the Corinthians, and instead of nodding along to this one, it struck me as being central to the mission of being an upright man of God.
Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
1 Corinthians 16: 13-14 RSVCE
We must remain vigilant. We must encourage and build each other up - this is how Paul closed a letter. We can learn from this example as much as we can make this a central part of our lives. The place that we can begin our discernment and action from.
We must be firm in our faith. Not only when it’s easy. Not as a transactional relationship. But a deep foundation at our core. A relationship with Jesus Christ. Building our lives upon Him. Knowing we will not be shaken. And believing it that when things do get tough, we behave in a way that reflects our belief, that reflects reality.
We must be courageous. We must take heart, not avoiding difficulties but facing them with bravery. Overcoming fear. Moving in a way that demonstrates the freedom we have. We must be men ready and willing to stand in the gap.
We must be strong. Strength is being firm, but gentle. Trust strength is rooted in self control. We build physical strength by setting aside time to exercise, to train in a controlled fashion. In much the same way, we must set aside time to practice true strength.
And lastly, we must love. Every thought, word, and action should stem from love. We may say that something is done “out of love,” but let us reexamine our how. Our action. Our tone of voice. Our facial expressions. Our attitude. Does all of it reflect the love we have? Do we truly show love through each? Without love, we are nothing. The best intentions mean nothing when love is compromised by our behavior.
Be a man of love. Lay down your life. Speak kindly. Act justly. Be joyful. Be mindful of how others are impacted. Strive to be like the saints. We Forge Ahead, Together.