Spiritual WarfareSample

Serve as a Soldier

Spiritual warfare explains so much about life.

The British preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, “When you sleep, remember that you are resting on the battlefield; when you travel, suspect an ambush in every hedge.”[1]

Guys, don’t be surprised when bombs go off all around you. We live in wartime conditions. One day, we will live in peace after Jesus comes again; that time is not now. We’re enlisted soldiers at war, and our only concern should be pleasing our commanding officer, Jesus.

The good news: victory is assured. In fact, Jesus has already won the victory.

The bad news: the skirmishes continue. You’re part of a much larger battle that’s been going on for millennia. You will come under fire. Sometimes, we may lose battles. Life will be challenging, but soldiers are never surprised when facing hardships. It’s part of the territory.

So, “share in suffering.” Keep fighting. Your enemy is on the run, and Jesus is victorious. What a privilege to be enlisted, even when it’s hard, and to know that the war will be over one day.

In the meantime, we soldier on.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminding me that I’m enlisted as a soldier. Help me suffer well as a soldier, looking forward to the day I receive an “honourable discharge” in eternity with You. Until then, help me to keep fighting. Amen.

Reflection: How does the image of soldiering change how you see your life?

[1] Spurgeon, Charles. Morning and Evening: A New Edition of the Classic Devotional Based on The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Crossway. Kindle Edition. Location 3999.

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