There’s a saying of an old wise man that traces back many centuries: “Thou shalt stand immovable in joy and sorrow like the bones of the dead.”

A few things stand out about it. 

First, it uses the word immovable. Of course, people aren’t literally immovable when they’re alive. They move and walk around. “Immovable” is a reference to someone being firmly rooted, steady and consistent. They aren’t easily pushed off course.

Second, the saying indicates that this person is immovable “in joy and in sorrow.” It’s one thing to be immovable when things are wonderful; it’s another when you are getting bashed over the head with hardship.

Lastly, the saying speaks about being immovable “like the bones of the dead.” The point is that dead bones don’t startle easily. They don’t fly off the handle. They don’t get so excited that they lose perspective.

The reason I like this saying is because it causes us to pause and dwell on the biblical idea of steadfastness. “My heart is steadfast, O God…” (Psalm 108:1) It’s a frequent theme. Several biblical authors extol the virtues of steadfastness.

Sure. Sounds good. But how do I become more steadfast?

It begins with a decision which is both simple and resolute.

-When it comes to faith, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When it comes to family, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When it comes to church, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When it comes to priorities, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When it comes to virtue, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When it comes to my friends, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When I’m on the top of the mountain, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.
-When I’m in the valley, I will not be flimsy; I will be steadfast.

Some days you will fail, but you won’t be defeated. You’ll dust yourself off, ask for God’s grace and help, re-decide to be steadfast, and begin again.

“Thou shalt stand immovable in joy and sorrow like the bones of the dead.”

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Notes:

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–Podcast: “Keeping Jesus at the Centre.” On November 26, 2023 I spoke with William Min at Westminster church. How do we keep Jesus at the centre in a world of distractions? We also talked about his new role as Youth and Outreach Coordinator, youth ministry, and a change world. You can listen here, or tune in to ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ wherever you subscribe.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.