How can we stand firm in our faith despite opposition, like Pilate? Setting the scene—John 19:21–22 “ ‘Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but write, ‘This man said, I am the King of the Jews.’ ” (John 19:21) “Pilate answered, ‘What I have written, I have written.’ ” (John 19:22) Why Pilate’s resolve matters today Pilate, though spiritually conflicted, refused to alter what he had publicly declared about Jesus. His simple statement models how a single, settled conviction can withstand loud opposition. How to stand firm when pressure mounts • Ground convictions in God’s unchanging Word. – “Therefore take up the full armor of God…having done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13) • Remember the real audience is the Lord, not the crowd. – “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20) • Replace fear of people with fear of God. – “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” (1 Peter 3:14) • Lean on the Spirit’s power. – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Keep eternity in view. – “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Surround yourself with believers who reinforce courage. – Acts 4 shows Peter and John standing together; fellowship fuels boldness. Scriptural reinforcements Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—Daniel 3:17-18 Paul before Agrippa—Acts 26:19-29 Stephen before the Sanhedrin—Acts 7:51-60 Practical action steps this week 1. Memorize a “stand-fast” verse (try 1 Corinthians 15:58). 2. State aloud one biblical conviction in a conversation. 3. Identify a setting where you often feel pressured; ask the Spirit for strength before entering it. 4. Share a testimony with a trusted friend of a time God helped you remain firm. Take-home truth When God’s Word shapes our convictions, the Spirit empowers our courage, and eternity frames our perspective, we can echo Pilate’s unlikely yet enduring words: “What I have written, I have written.” |
    |