I read a quote the other day that I can’t stop thinking about. I’m sorry, but I don’t remember who said it. It was, “Only those who have gone through war can be called warriors.” We often sing, “Soldiers of Christ Arise” or “Onward Christian Soldiers,” but we’re not really fond of going through battle. It’s kinda like the “Everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to go right now” thing. We like to think of ourselves as being prepared for the battle against sin, but we’d really rather not be “called up” right now. Why rock the boat – right?
In Ephesians 6:10-17, Paul urges us to “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God,” which includes having the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and only offensive weapon needed – the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. These things are necessary to withstand in the evil day, and having done all – to stand. When the battle is over, we will be able to walk away. Peter urged us to “Be sober, be vigilant; because our adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour” (I Peter 5:8). We must be prepared, willing, and able to do what needs to be done.
Friends, we will be called upon from time to time to “step up” and defend our faith. And when we are still standing at the end of the war, we will then be a warrior. Simply blessed, Courtney
Amen. Being battle tested is not something most of us want but we want the medal that come from the war. Stolen Valor is real and I don’t want to do that with Our God!!! Praying for strength through each battle!