This idea of holding fast is pretty straightforward. This word is also translated “bound, possess, occupy and embrace.” To “hold fast”, simply means to get a firm grip. Have you ever participated in a tug of war? You get a firm grip on the rope and try not to let go. What things do you “hold fast” to in this life?

I “hold fast” to my wife and children. Beyond my relationship to the Lord, they are the most precious on earth to me. Shelli and I have been through many trials and struggles after 35 years of marriage and we are committed to one another. Even when everything is not perfect we still cling or “hold fast” to one another.

I also “hold fast” to the ministry of the Word of God. Like Paul, I exclaim, “…for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel.” (I Corinthians 9:16). The Word of God consumes my life. I know its power. I want to embrace its truth. I want to be bound to its commands. I want it to occupy my mind. I want to possess more and more of it.

We are to “examine everything carefully” and when we find beautiful, good things we are to get a good grip on them. Philippians 4:8 relates, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Of course I want to “hold fast” to the Word, to prayer, to the church and to Christian fellowship. These are all very “good.” How about you? What do you “hold fast?”