So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. (2 Thess. 2:15)
After a hurricane, it is common to see trees snapped in two like matchsticks. But not so for palm trees. During the strong, forceful winds and rain, palm trees sway back and forth and even bend, but rarely break. The tree endures, and its roots remain firmly planted in the ground. After the storm has passed over, cleanup and recovery begins. The palm trees that have been battered by the elements can be seen leaning over. But in the presence of the sun, they return to their upright position.
The Thessalonians were urged to establish a life firmly grounded in the truth passed on from Paul. He closed the letter how he opened it, telling them not to be shaken or troubled by the misleading reports about the day of the Lord. He affirmed that his teachings handed down were reliable and provided comfort and strength. He shored up their confidence by reminding them of the certainty of their future. No matter the fears of apostasy, false teaching, and the persecution suffered, he insisted they grasp tightly to truth because it would give them sure footing in troubled times.
The truth you believe directs your actions and guides how you live and walk. A foundation of strong roots in truth helps us weather the storm now and the ones to come.
Love the truth. Believe the truth. Live the truth.
Ladrienne Cage McFarland enjoys spending time with family, listening to music, VBS, crafting, and studying God’s Word.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
