Why is it important to "hold fast to" God's covenant today? Setting the Scene: Isaiah 56:6 “Also the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD to minister to Him, to love the name of the LORD and to be His servants, everyone who keeps the Sabbath without profaning it and who holds fast to My covenant—” What “hold fast” means • Grasp firmly—refusing to loosen one’s grip (Deuteronomy 10:20). • Remain loyal—cleaving to God’s revealed terms, not editing or modernizing them (Joshua 23:8). • Persevere—continuing even when culture shifts (Hebrews 10:23). Why holding fast to God’s covenant is vital today • It anchors identity: God defines His people by covenant loyalty, not ethnicity, status, or trend (Isaiah 56:6–7; 1 Peter 2:9). • It guards truth: Scripture is the unchanging standard; grasping it protects from drift and deception (Psalm 119:89; Jude 3). • It unlocks blessing: God’s promises are attached to covenant faithfulness—peace, joy, answered prayer, future hope (Deuteronomy 28:1–14; John 15:7). • It showcases witness: Steadfast obedience displays God’s character to a watching world (Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15–16). • It fuels perseverance: Remembering God’s sworn commitment empowers endurance in hardship (Isaiah 54:10; Romans 8:31–39). Practical ways to hold fast • Daily Scripture intake—reading, memorizing, meditating (Psalm 119:11). • Obedient action—aligning lifestyle with revealed commands (James 1:22). • Covenant community—gathering with believers for mutual exhortation (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Confessional faith—speaking God’s word over doubt and temptation (Revelation 12:11). • Regular remembrance—Lord’s Supper, testimonies, personal journaling (1 Corinthians 11:25). Blessings promised to covenant-keepers • Acceptance in God’s house: “I will bring them to My holy mountain and give them joy in My house of prayer” (Isaiah 56:7). • Unshakable peace: “Great peace have those who love Your law” (Psalm 119:165). • Fruitful lives: “Blessed is the one … whose delight is in the law of the LORD … whatever he does prospers” (Psalm 1:1–3). Encouragement from the New Covenant Jesus fulfills and secures the covenant (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6). By faith in Him we are empowered to obey from the heart (Ezekiel 36:27; Romans 6:17). Holding fast today means trusting His finished work while clinging to His commands until the day He makes all things new (Revelation 21:5). |
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