Stand Up and Be Counted

Watchman Nee’s commentary on the book of Ephesians outlines a progression of our Christian walk:

• How we are seated in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).
• How we are to walk worthy of our calling, walking in love, as children of light, and in wisdom (Ephesians 4–5).
• How we are to put on the armor of God to stand firm against the enemy (Ephesians 6).

At a recent U.S. presidential campaign, two young pro-life Christian men stood up for their beliefs and were willing to face criticism. Similarly, there are times when we must choose to stand up and be counted, other times when God calls us, and moments when we must be willing to respond. Are we ready to stand up and be counted?

Stand Up and Be Counted in Responsiveness

Exodus 32:26–28 (NKJV): "Then Moses stood in the entrance of the camp, and said, 'Whoever is on the Lord’s side—come to me!' And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves to him."

Responsiveness means reacting quickly and positively by choice. Before the Levitical priesthood was established, the Levites responded to Moses’ call immediately. Are we quick to respond when God calls? He values this quality in His people.

Stand Up and Be Counted in Readiness

In the battle against the Midianites, Gideon’s army was reduced from 32,000 to 300 men so that God’s power and glory would be evident. The men who were ready to drink water with one hand while holding their weapon in the other were chosen for battle (Judges 7:4–5).

Readiness to act when God moves is vital. As Esther was reminded:

Esther 4:14 (NKJV): "For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Are we willing to move when God calls, knowing that He can choose others if we are unresponsive?

Stand Up and Be Counted in Willingness

The wall builders in Nehemiah’s time demonstrated willingness, responsiveness, and readiness:

Nehemiah 2:18 (NKJV): "And they said, 'Let us rise up and build.' Then they set their hands to this good work."

Nehemiah 4:6 (NKJV): "So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work."

Even while working, they held their weapons, showing their dedication and vigilance (Nehemiah 4:17).

Conclusion

When every part of the body of Christ fits into its proper place and functions well, the church grows, and God’s purposes are fulfilled. If we have been hurt or offended, let us let go and rise again to serve Him. Together, as individuals, families, life groups, and the church, let us stand up and be counted in responsiveness, readiness, and willingness.