Will You Stand?

Daniel Marsh
Apr 26
4 min read

Saturday Morning of Arizona Campmeeting 2025

by Bro. Dale Raines

A Call to Stand

On the morning of April 26, 2025, Bro Dale Raines took to the pulpit at the Arizona Campmeeting with a deeply pressing message for the congregation. Framing his sermon around a powerful passage from Ephesians 6:10-18, Bro Raines immediately drew attention to the urgency of the spiritual battle facing believers today. He emphasized, "The evil day is here," underscoring the widespread wickedness that challenges Christians at every turn.

Bro Raines noted the shift in societal norms, indicating a clear departure from biblical principles. He spoke candidly about the rising prevalence of moral decay and spiritual indifference, expressing concern that many Christians have become passive observers rather than active participants in God's redemptive mission. Highlighting the increasing hostility towards genuine Christian values, he called upon the church not merely to react but proactively and courageously assert the truths of the Gospel.

He shared personal experiences and biblical anecdotes to vividly illustrate the battles Christians face. By recounting instances from both the Bible and contemporary life, Bro Raines connected deeply with his audience, emphasizing that these struggles were not isolated events but integral to the Christian journey. His pointed message sought to awaken a renewed commitment and urgency within believers to remain steadfast amidst adversity.

Equipping for Battle

Bro Raines stressed the necessity of being fully equipped with the "whole armor of God," highlighting each piece—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God. He challenged the congregation not merely to know about the armor but actively put it on and live prepared. This preparedness, he explained, is crucial for Christians to withstand the assaults of spiritual darkness that are increasingly prevalent.

He delved deeper into each component of the armor, meticulously explaining how each piece plays a vital role in spiritual protection and combat. "Truth," he explained, "serves as the belt that holds everything else together. Without truth, believers become vulnerable to deception." Righteousness, he described as a breastplate that protects the heart from moral compromise, while the shoes of peace equip believers to walk confidently in the Gospel, spreading Christ's message amidst chaos and uncertainty.

Faith, Bro Raines continued, is the shield protecting believers from the fiery darts of doubt and discouragement, whereas the helmet of salvation secures believers' minds, reminding them continually of their eternal hope and destiny. Finally, he emphasized the critical importance of wielding the sword of the Spirit—the Word of God—which enables Christians not only to defend but also to advance against spiritual adversaries.

Standing Amidst Conflict

Reflecting on contemporary struggles, Bro Raines acknowledged the difficulty of standing firm in faith, especially during times when the enemy attacks unexpectedly. He recounted scenarios from Scripture and everyday life, illustrating how believers often face battles immediately following significant spiritual victories or joyful experiences. "Saints, we can't afford to let our guard down," he passionately urged, calling for vigilance, prayerfulness, and constant spiritual readiness.

He shared the poignant example of Elijah, who after experiencing a dramatic victory at Mount Carmel, soon found himself discouraged and vulnerable. "This scenario," Bro Raines said, "is all too common among believers today." He urged the congregation to be mindful of their spiritual condition at all times, warning against complacency and the dangers of spiritual pride. Bro Raines encouraged believers to continually seek God's presence, particularly in times of perceived spiritual strength, to avoid unexpected spiritual pitfalls.

The Question of Commitment

The central and piercing question Bro Raines posed to the audience was not whether believers can stand—"God has already affirmed that we can," he reminded—but rather, "Will you stand?" He emphasized the importance of personal resolve and active commitment. Raynes illustrated this with a simple yet poignant analogy: "Any dead fish can float downstream, but it takes a live one to swim upstream against the current." His call was clear and urgent—true Christians must choose daily to actively pursue faithfulness.

He expanded this analogy further, urging the congregation to evaluate their own spiritual vitality. "Are you merely drifting along, carried by the currents of culture and convenience, or are you actively swimming against them, guided by conviction and courage?" he questioned. Bro Raines underscored the reality that standing firm in faith is rarely comfortable or easy, but it is essential for true Christian witness and spiritual survival. He called upon believers to solidify their commitment to Christ, regardless of the costs or consequences.

Reflective Questions

Am I fully equipped with the armor of God, or am I missing crucial elements?
What spiritual battles am I currently facing, and am I prepared to withstand them?
Do I actively choose to stand firm in my faith daily, or am I drifting with societal currents?
Have I genuinely pursued sanctification to enhance my spiritual endurance?
How am I guarding my heart and mind against complacency and spiritual fatigue?