Standing Firm: A Reflection on Strength and Endurance

I've been really struggling with my physical health for almost 14 months, as many of you know. My ongoing neurological symptoms are debilitating every single day. I often push myself a couple of days a week, one of those days being Fridays when I take care of my 3-year-old grandson, Vince. Wednesdays can also be tough; teaching back-to-back classes is incredibly challenging, as I usually can only manage 2-3 hours upright before my trembling symptoms become uncontrollable.

Recently, during one of my precious Fridays with Vince, we were playing a game and contemplating crafts—always searching for ways to have fun together. However, that particular day, I was especially disoriented and in pain. When Vince asked me to chase him, I had to gently decline. “Chase me, Mimi!” he exclaimed, and my heart sank as I replied, “Baby, I can’t do that today.”

His inquisitive gaze mirrored a typical 3-year-old's innocence, and he asked, “But why?” My instant reply was, “Honey, Mimi doesn’t feel very good today.” For a moment, he looked sad for me, but we quickly transitioned to other activities, and he was fine.

Yet, on the drive home that day, I cried the entire way. I felt inadequate and as though I wasn’t being the best Mimi I could be, which filled me with deep grief. I found myself resentful of my condition and questioning my value.

Fast forward to that weekend. While studying for my upcoming classes, I landed on the word “STAND” (likely because that’s what I struggle with the most). Many attendees in my local classes are already familiar with much of what I’m about to share, but this word struck me profoundly. I recognized that nearly every time the New Testament mentions the word "stand," it refers not to a physical posture but rather to a moral stance or endurance of spirit—a call to abide or persevere.

The Meaning of "Stand"

Jesus reiterates multiple times in Matthew and Mark, “You will be hated by everyone because of me. But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” In Luke, He says, “Stand firm and you will win your life.” (Matt 10:22, Matt 24:13, Mark 13:13, Luke 21:19 NIV)

If you're familiar with Strong's Concordance, the Greek word translated here as "stand" is G5278, which implies enduring, remaining, or persevering. In 1 Corinthians 15:1, Paul reminds us of the necessity of taking our stand in the Gospel, using another Greek word for “stand”—G2476—which suggests continuing or abiding.

The Call to Stand Firm

Paul frequently uses G4739 to emphasize stability and steadfastness. In Galatians 5:1, he states, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm…” Here, it conveys a refusal to be burdened and a call to adhere. In Philippians 1:27, he encourages us to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel, standing firm in one Spirit.

Finally, G1476 in 1 Corinthians 15:58 provides another layer of understanding. This specific word shows that our “standing firm” suggests a planted stability, often opposing our typical thoughts of "standing." Instead of being upright, it implies a seated or sedentary position—something I relate to deeply, given that I conduct most of my life in this posture.

Finding Strength in Stillness with God

In my immovable moments, where I often must lie down or remain seated, God reminds me: Being steadfast in faith doesn’t require physical activity. The Holy Spirit lovingly lifts my chin and assures me that I can still be a valuable wife, a good Mimi and Mom, a helpful yoga teacher, and an asset to the nonprofit, simply by being faithful and staying close to Him. As I pray through the scriptures, I’ve been lovingly reminded: Even if I can't run after my grandson, dance, or even use my vacuum, I can still stand—in my heart and my mind.

I stand ready—ready to worship, ready to serve, pray, love, forgive, and obey. While I may not be physically upright and energetically moving as I wish, I am standing firm with the Spirit of God Almighty.

So, the following week with Vince, as I held that sweet boy before his nap and prayed with him, I was encouraged to simply “stand firm” in my heart with God.

Here I stand, prepared to embrace and share the love and strength that God provides.