Stand Up

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.

EPHESIANS 6:10-11

HOW HARD IS IT FOR YOU to stand up for yourself? For some people, it’s not too hard at all. For others, it seems almost impossible. And it can be hard to know when it’s time to stand up for yourself. Are you having a disagreement with a friend? Sometimes a simple disagreement is just two different opinions. But if a disagreement turns into name-calling or insults, then it’s time to take a stand.

God tells us to be strong because he knows standing up for ourselves isn’t always easy. And we can stand up without being mean to the other person in return. Standing up for yourself is as simple as saying, “I’m not going to let you talk to me like that. We can talk later when we’re both calmer.” Or, “It’s not okay to call people names. You need to stop right now.”

Standing up for yourself is showing yourself respect. And when others know you respect yourself, they will usually respect you too. (However, if a situation gets worse, you should ask an adult for help.)

One thing is certain: God is with us, and he tells us to put on his armor when it’s time to stand strong. Knowing that gives us confidence and strength.

DO

When have you needed to stand up for yourself? What happened when you did (or didn’t)? Think about how you feel inside when you know it’s time to stand up for yourself. Maybe it’s the feeling you get when someone makes fun of you. Or maybe it’s when people start teasing and won’t stop. Think about those times, and practice saying these words, loudly and firmly: “I don’t like it when you talk to me this way. Please stop.”

PRAY

Dear God,

Thank you for helping me stand up for myself. Please remind me to put on your armor and stand strong. Amen.

READ

Matthew 12:36; Luke 17:3