1. "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith" (Jude 1:20a).
Cross-reference: "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17).
The foundation of our spiritual resilience lies in our faith. We must diligently build up our faith by immersing ourselves in the Word of God. Romans 10:17 reminds us that faith comes from hearing the Word. By studying and meditating on Scripture, we can strengthen our belief and trust in the Lord.
2. "Praying in the Holy Ghost" (Jude 1:20b).
Cross-reference: "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:18).
Our prayers become potent when we pray in the power of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 6:18 encourages us to pray in the Spirit at all times. Through prayer, we connect with God, seeking His guidance, strength, and wisdom. Let us cultivate a consistent and fervent prayer life, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
3. "Keep yourselves in the love of God" (Jude 1:21a).
Cross-reference: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love" (John 15:10).
To maintain spiritual resilience, we must abide in the love of God. John 15:10 teaches us that abiding in God's love is closely tied to keeping His commandments. It is through obedience that we demonstrate our love for Him. Let us strive to live a life of obedience, cherishing and guarding the love of our Heavenly Father.
4. "Looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life" (Jude 1:21b).
Cross-reference: "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13).
Our spiritual resilience is fueled by the hope of eternal life in Christ. Titus 2:13 reminds us to eagerly anticipate the blessed hope of Jesus' glorious return. This expectation keeps us focused on the eternal perspective, providing comfort and strength in times of trials and tribulations.
5. "And of some have compassion, making a difference" (Jude 1:22).
Cross-reference: "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).
As believers, we are called to demonstrate compassion towards others. Galatians 6:2 exhorts us to bear one another's burdens, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. In building spiritual resilience, we should reach out to those in need, offering support, encouragement, and practical help.
6. "Pulling them out of the fire" (Jude 1:23).
Cross-reference: "And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" (Jude 1:23b).
Building spiritual resilience involves rescuing those who are in spiritual danger. Jude 1:23 emphasizes the urgency of saving souls from destruction. We must be bold in sharing the Gospel, warning others of the consequences of sin, and guiding them toward salvation through Jesus Christ.
Illustration: The Pilgrim's Torch: Imagine a weary traveler on a dark and treacherous path, struggling to find their way. Then, another person approaches with a torch, offering light and guidance. The torchbearer symbolizes believers who carry the light of truth and hope to guide others through the challenges of life. This illustration highlights the importance of sharing the truth of God's Word and helping others find their way back to Him, as Jude urges us to "show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh" (Jude 1:23)
7. "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling" (Jude 1:24a).
Cross-reference: "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6).
Our ultimate confidence in building spiritual resilience rests in the Lord's ability to keep us from falling. Philippians 1:6 assures us that God, who initiated our spiritual journey, will faithfully bring it to completion. Trusting in His unwavering faithfulness, we can face any challenge with the assurance of His sustaining grace.
Conclusion:
May we be encouraged to build spiritual resilience and strengthen our faith. Let us diligently study God's Word, pray in the Holy Spirit, keep ourselves in His love, and eagerly await the eternal life promised through Jesus Christ. May our lives be marked by compassion, evangelism, and unwavering trust in the Lord, knowing that He is able to keep us from falling.
