Standing Firm

February 1, 2026

Dr. Paul Cannings

There are many voices today using countless methods to communicate messages that challenge and confuse the minds of many, including preachers who present differing interpretations of God’s Word, even confusing those who sincerely desire to believe (2 Corinthians 11:13–15). 

When Christ—the living Word (John 1:1–4)—was physically on earth, Satan intensified his attacks more than in Old Testament times. He promoted conflicting doctrines through Jewish leaders and even confronted Christ directly, attempting to distort Scripture—the very Word Christ Himself authored (Luke 4:1–13). 

In these last days, Satan’s activity increases like birth pains (Matthew 24:1–31). He is the prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:1–2), influencing a world under his sway (1 John 5:19) through false doctrine (1 Timothy 4:1–4), love of money (1 Timothy 6:10), deception (John 8:44), endless speculations (2 Timothy 3:23–26), and human pride masquerading as wisdom (Romans 1:22–32). As these pressures intensify, many who once followed Christ will fall away (Matthew 24:9–12). 

So, what does the Lord expect of us? Peter teaches us to be sober-minded and holy (1 Peter 1:13–16; Prov. 23:7), to stand firm in the faith (1 Peter 5:9); by being doers of the Word (James 1:23–25; 2:14–25). This posture enables us to resist the devil (1 Peter 5:8–11) as God continually transforms us by renewing our minds (Romans 12:2), empowering us through the Holy Spirit who is greater within us (1 John 4:4). 

Therefore, we must guard our minds (Philippians 4:8–9), taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), knowing God has given us everything needed for life and godliness through His Word (2 Peter 1:3–4). We are called to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col. 3:2; Matt. 6:24; 1 John 2:15-17), and to practice obedience (1 John 4:7-11), so our love for God does not grow cold (1 John 2:3–6, 9–10). 

Approach every issue you encounter by trusting the Lord’s Word. He says, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” (Proverbs 8:17); “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13; Deut. 4:29; Matt. 7:7: John 15:1-13). Remember His Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11), and it is trustworthy because “it is impossible for God to lie.” (Hebrews 6:18). 

Also remember: “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18). Listen to the Lord first, then carefully evaluate those who teach, for many false teachers have gone out into the world (1 John 2:20–29). Junk food may taste good (2 Timothy 4:3–4), but it ultimately leads to spiritual sickness and death. 

Be alert. The devil is consistently and persistently prowling (1 Peter 5:8).