Monthly Devotion - February 2026
Becoming a Firm Believer/Church
“Therefore, believers, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you [be sure that your behavior reflects and confirms your relationship with God]” (2 Peter 1:10a AMP )
Without realizing it, we have already entered the second month of 2026. Besides being a faithful church, there is one more thing we need to reflect on together: how we can become a more firm church or people of faith. Our guiding verse from 2 Peter 1:10a is closely related to the theme of last month's reflection. If we are willing to make every effort, our calling and election will become more firm. In fact, this verse as a whole (verse 10b) says, “for by doing these things [actively developing these virtues], you will never stumble [in your spiritual growth and will live a life that leads others away from sin]” This is the life of a victorious believer. The word “victorious” is included in the group of adjectives that can connote or mean “obtaining or possessing victory.” The question now is, how can we as followers of Christ strive to make our calling and choice more firm or how can we be victorious or successful in living this life. It should be noted that success in this case does not always mean getting what we want materially or worldly, but rather more spiritual, namely being able to "grateful" for what happens in the various opportunities in life that we are currently experiencing, and remaining steadfast in overcoming all problems that arise. To strive to be more steadfast, we certainly need to continue to struggle in life. Every struggle we have must be based on faith in the One who gives us strength. Paul said to the Philippians, "Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him." (Philippians 2:12-13 NLT). Remember also the story of the disciples' journey with Jesus in the Gospel of Mark 4:35-41. Even though Jesus was with them, the disciples were unaware of His power, and they were afraid. If they had remained calm and steadfast, they would have only needed to call upon Him for strength. Likewise, if we realize that Jesus is with us through His Holy Spirit within us, we can live our lives steadfastly and without doubt, for His presence gives us the strength to live victoriously and calm the waves that threaten our lives. Even though we believe in the living God, we are asked to continue to strive earnestly in life. God does not grant instant victory, and sometimes He allows the righteous to face danger or misfortune, but God is able to deliver us from all (Psalm 34:20). We need to always remember that if God is with us, He will not leave us alone in facing the problem. He will help and give victory to those of us who trust in Him. God's Word says, "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV) and „ […] in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37 KJV). Let's try seriously to be more steadfast in our calling and choice, so that we don't stumble or become a stumbling block. Amen! Jesus bless you!
By Pastor Silwanus Obadja M.Th.
...Monthly
Devotion - January 2026