To be STEADFAST is to be fixed and solid, stable, and steady. [Col. 1:23] It means we need to be immovable but also flourishing in Christ’s work. [1 Cor.15:58]. Col. 4:2 states, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it.”
John Piper writes, “In their respective Christian virtue-progressions, Peter, Paul, and James all highlight the need for endurance, or steadfastness (Greek hupomoné) = the ability to bear up under trial.”
2 Peter 1:5-6 says, “Make every effort to supplement your…self-control with STEADFASTNESS, and steadfastness with godliness.” And James 1:3-4 says, “The testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its FULL effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
When Job underwent various sufferings, he endured the difficult trials and his faith remained steadfast. In Job 23:10 he stated, “But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”
We experience security when our parents and others have faithfully been steadfast in their love for us. Christ’s love never falters/wavers. He is always steadfast in His mercy, love, and grace. Lamentations 3:22 states, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies NEVER come to an end…”
If Christ’s love is steadfast and never ending, how much more should our own faith and love increase and be steadfast? Exodus 34:6-7 says, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, is slow to anger, and ABOUNDING IN STEADFAST LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…”
Steadfastness is a vital key to Christian maturity. We do not become complete or righteous without it. May our hearts become so united in our sweet Lord, that His steadfast love and faithfulness will increase ours, that our faith will not flicker like a candle in the wind, but be spiritually confident, steady, faithful, and strong.
Precious Lord Jesus, please assist my faith to become steadfast and firm, like a rock, built on You. Thank You that You promise to never leave me nor forsake me, but that Your love and care for me is constant, stable, and secure. I trust in Your steadfastness and safety. Amen.
Myrtle Turunen