Contending for the gospel is inherently challenging, difficult and demanding to do – particularly over the long haul! We need to keep refreshing ourselves with biblical truth and principles, so that we can keep going and not lose heart. Moreover, we need to keep making sure that we contend in the right way, and neither compromise nor become unkind zealots for truth.
Here are ten things I keep trying to remind myself of as we battle for the gospel in this difficult season.
1. In contending for the faith, I must live in daily repentance for my own sins (Luke 18:14).
2. In contending for the faith, I must remember that the battle isn’t against flesh and blood (Eph 6:12).
3. In contending for the faith, I must be merciful to those who doubt (Jude 22).
4. In contending for the faith, I must not lose my joy (Rom 14:17).
5. In contending for the faith, I must expect that many will not listen (2 Tim 4:3) – though some may (2 Tim 2:25).
6. In contending for the faith, I must stand firm (2 Thess 2:15).
7. In contending for the faith, I must pray in every situation (Eph 6:18).
8. In contending for the faith, I must set an example of love, faith and purity (1 Tim 4:12).
9. In contending for the faith, I must remember that man’s anger does not produce the righteousness of God (James 1:20).
10. In contending for the faith, victory comes through ultimate self-sacrifice (Rev 12:11).