(The following is the November 28 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Jude and pay close attention to verses 3-4.)
Paul told the Romans, “If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Rom. 12:18). That is wise advice, especially when disagreeing over less significant matters. The better choice sometimes is to refuse to engage in conflict. But what happens when others confront us eager to fight regarding more vital issues? We must engage them firmly yet lovingly with biblical truth.
Like other New Testament authors, Jude warned against false teachers. Much was at stake, so Jude said to “contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all. For some people, who were designated for this judgment long ago, have come in by stealth; they are ungodly, turning the grace of our God into sensuality and denying Jesus Christ, our only Master and Lord” (vv. 3-4).
Contending for the faith requires offensive and defensive weapons. Paul includes both discussing the whole armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18. We must prepare a proper defense for our faith because Satan and his allies constantly attack Christians. We should know their tactics, not be intimidated, and be ready to stand our ground in crucial matters of faith and practice. We can’t merely defend against the enemy’s efforts, though. Until Christ’s Great Commission to make disciples of all nations is complete, we must strive to take new ground with offensive weapons for our spiritual battles.
Few people enjoy conflict. It’s stressful and challenging, and we may not feel adequate for the task. But if we stand our ground defensively and take new ground offensively for Christ regularly, we will do our part to “contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all.” Remember that the Lord fights the battle with us as we go, so we are not alone.
Next Step:
When have you walked away from faith-related conflicts instead of standing your ground? How do you determine which approach is best?
