There are days when it seems it is hard to push back against the world. It appears you are surrounded by the idol worship of our day that rejects the living God. At times it may be seem hard to hold on to God’s truth as others pressure you with false teaching.
Deuteronomy 13 is a passage that warns the Israelites about following false gods. Verse 4 tells us, “You shall follow the LORD your God and fear Him; and you shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him (NASB).” I love the word cling in the NASB. The NIV uses the phrase, “hold fast to Him,” which portrays an image for me of fastening something together with staples, nails or screws.
I prefer cling because to me it is not merely fastening something together, but it is an action on our part to hold tightly to God no matter what happens. It’s like a movie scene where the hero clings to a lone branch on a cliff after the enemy has pushed her over the edge. Only this branch is the steadfast, firm arm of God. The Message actually translates verse 4 with “hold on to him for dear life!”
Indeed, cling to God for dear life because He is eternal life. He is the way, truth, and life (John 14:6). Don’t let the empty words of those who follow the false gods and philosophies of our day dissuade you. Hold on to Jesus for dear life.
© 2026, Chris G. Thelen
If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” – Joshua 24:15, NASB
140 Character Christian 