21Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 23I call God as my witness that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. 24Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.
Father, it can only be You who makes us stand firm. Help! My family is falling. You once owned my children but now one by one they are falling away. Yet You say You are guaranteeing what is to come, so I have hope. I cannot imagine You leaving Satan steal my sons from Your hand, so in You I trust. Strengthen me and encourage my heart, for I am weak and sad. Help me praise You and give You glory, increase my faith.
*2Corinthians1*