You and I were made to be warriors. If you read my last post, you heard about David, an earthly Shepherd-King who overcame fear by trusting in the Lord. We can walk in courage like him by recognizing our heavenly Shepherd-King who stands beside us in our battles. God fights for us and with us. But are we battle-ready?
When my son and stepson joined the Army, the first stage in their training was boot camp (or basic training). This grueling nine-week period moved them from civilian status to soldier. Through disciplined instruction, they honed their military skills. So, by the end of the training, one of their accomplishments was hiking a 12-mile ruck march in full gear weighing over 50 pounds. Every piece of equipment they carried had a distinct purpose, and each soldier was skilled in their use.
Should we expect less as we prepare for spiritual battle? The Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians, answers this question with an emphatic NO.
Finally, let the Lord make you strong. Depend on his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor. Then you can stand firm against the devil’s evil plans. Our fight is not against human beings. It is against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly world.
So put on all of God’s armor. Evil days will come. But you will be able to stand up to anything. And after you have done everything you can, you will still be standing.
Ephesians 6:10-13
On a daily basis, I face spiritual battles. Some are external challenges, but if I’m honest, many reside in the battlefield of my own mind. Every morning I must choose my attitude and my response to the people I interact with in my sphere of influence. Do I approach my day with an attitude of justice and mercy, or do I lash out in anger and retribution for every perceived wrong? How I process the events in my life, makes a significant difference to myself and to those I love.
How do I equip myself to stand for what is right and good rather than succumb to negativity and despair? Again, Paul gives us the answer.
So, stand firm. Put on the belt of truth around your waist. Put the armor of godliness on your chest.
Wear on your feet what will prepare you to tell the good news of peace. Also, pick up the shield of faith. With it you can put out all of the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Put on the helmet of salvation. And take the sword of the Holy Spirit. The sword is God’s word.
At all times, pray by the power of the Spirit.
Ephesians 6:14-18 NIRV
In other words, clothe yourself in truth and good living. Always be ready to tell the Good News of peace shown to you through Jesus. Let your faith shield you from evil and never forget you are saved for eternity. Then God’s Word will enable you to cut through all deception and lead you on right paths. Finally, remember to pray about everything no matter how small or mundane so the power of God’s Spirit will guide you and make you battle-ready for whatever challenges may come your way.
Fight all your battles on your knees and you will win every time.
Rev. Charles Stanley-pastor, author
God bless you, fellow battle-ready warriors.
