How to Remain Steadfast When Facing Opposition
Our adversary, the devil, would like believers to stay overwhelmed and fearful of circumstances and opposition they encounter. But, friend, we don’t have to be. Let’s turn to Scripture for truths to hold onto when facing opposition.
Philippians 1:27-29 states, “Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel, not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your salvation—and this is from God. For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him” (CSB).
In this passage, the apostle Paul challenges the Philippian believers to remain steadfast in their faith while facing opposition. The timeless truths he shares remain relevant and vital to all believers. Let’s delve into the 4 truths Paul shares, so that we can stand steadfast like the Philippian believers.
1. When facing opposition, remember that you are a citizen of heaven.
As citizens of heaven, Paul instructs believers to live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ (v. 27a). Friend, this world is not our home, for our citizenship is in heaven. This means we do not belong here in this world. Our allegiance is to God to follow His ways rather than the world’s ways. In other words, we seek to please the Lord not man. As a result, some people in the world will oppose us. For the way we live is contrary to the world’s standards.
In fact, Jesus told His disciples, “‘If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you’” (John 15:18-19 NIV).
Our opponents are fighting against God Most High.
Therefore, as citizens of heaven, believers can expect opposition. But keep in mind that those who oppose you are not just fighting against you, but also against God Most High. And they will not prevail in the end. For our God who is the Righteous and Just Judge will hold them accountable for their actions. Not only that, but the all-powerful Lord God Almighty is for you and is always with you. Absolutely nothing can separate you from His love. For He holds you firmly in the palm of His hand.
Our future in heaven is secure.
Plus, no matter what opposition we face, our eternal future in heaven is secure, while everything here on earth is temporary. “So [let’s] not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18 CSB).
As we strive to focus on the unseen, remember “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV).
2. When facing opposition, remember that you are not the only one.
Second, stand together with fellow believers as you contend for the faith of the gospel (v. 27b).
Friend, you are not the only one facing opposition in standing for truth. Believers all over the world are encountering opposition as well (I Peter 5:9). Even believers in your own community. This is why it is vitally important to engage in fellowship with like-minded believers. For they will encourage you, pray for you and stand united with you. As a result, each of you will inspire the other to boldly stand for the faith of the gospel.
“We are stronger and more resilient when we commit to a common cause with like-minded people.”
Rebekah Lyons, author and speaker
Not only are we stronger when united with other believers, but we powerfully display the gospel to a world in need of hope. For the Holman New Testament Commentary explains, “The world must see a united front defending and proclaiming the gospel. A fearless, unified church will astound the world. They will see the truth of the gospel.”
Furthermore, let’s not forget that the gospel “is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16 NIV). Therefore, let’s boldly stand together in one spirit, in one accord, contending for the faith of the gospel.
3. When facing opposition, remember God is always for you and with you.
Third, don’t be frightened in any way by your opponents (v. 28a). When we recognize that God Most High is on our side, it seems ludicrous to allow man to intimidate us (Romans 8:31). For Scripture declares that “God is enthroned above the circle of the earth; its inhabitants are like grasshoppers” (Isaiah 40:22 CSB). Friend, God is the Creator and Sustainer of the entire universe. Will He not take care of us, His treasured possession?
Therefore, let’s agree with the Psalmist declaring that, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 56:3-4 CSB).
Keep in mind the real battle is not against man.
However, the real battle is not against man but against the enemy in this world (Ephesians 6:12). For the enemy, the devil, has blinded those in the world to the truth of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4). This means people in this world are deceived and ensnared by the enemy’s lies resulting in ignorance of the truth. Because of this, let’s pray for those who oppose us. Pray “that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will” (2 Timothy 2:25-26 NIV).
Because the devil is ultimately behind any opposition we may face, Scripture instructs us to “put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit—which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:10-11, 14-17 CSB)
As we contend for the gospel, let’s stand strong in the armor of God, speaking truth over all fear. For we know that God is with us. He will strengthen us; He will help us; He will hold on to us with His righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).
4. When facing opposition, remember our calling includes suffering for Christ.
Lastly, we are called not only to believe in Jesus, but also to suffer for Him (v. 29).
“For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly” (I Peter 2:21-23 NLT).
With our gaze fixed on Jesus, let’s remember all that He endured in this world for us – the opposition He faced, the suffering He encountered. Through it all, Jesus remained committed to obeying His Father’s will, no matter the cost. May we follow Jesus’ example.
Then, as we model Christ’s behavior amid suffering, we reflect Him to a watching world. Therefore, let’s not shrink back in fear of suffering but remain focused on living in obedience to God no matter the cost.
“Suffering for the sake of Christ is purposeful, not purposeless. He allows it for our good and for His glory – and that makes all the difference.”
Tony Evans Bible Commentary
Final Thoughts on Facing Opposition
May we boldly shine our light knowing that the darkness cannot overcome it (Isaiah 60:1-2). For Scripture tells us that “the One who is in [us] is greater than the one who is in the world” (I John 4:4 CSB). Friend, God will strengthen and empower us no matter what opposition we may face.
Because of this, let’s remember to live as a citizen of heaven, unite with fellow believers, refuse intimidation of the enemy and choose to suffer for Christ.
Let’s pray: Father, thank You for the encouragement found in Your Word. Strengthen us to boldly stand for the faith of the gospel no matter what opposition we face. May Your Spirit remind us of these 4 truths and how Jesus lived as our example. May our lives give You glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Questions for Reflection
- What can I do to help me remember these 4 truths?
- Which truth spoke to me the most?
Scripture for Meditation
2 Timothy 3:12, “In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (CSB).
John 16:33, “‘I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world’” (CSB).
Revelation 12:11, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death” (NIV).
- Read for further insight on how to stand for truth, bold as a lion.
- Learn why we need to fight for truth and hold onto it.
- Read about 4 reasons why we have nothing to fear.
