Today’s Post Written By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis
Men and women around the world serve in the armed forces, protecting our freedoms and making our country safe. I’ve always held a great deal of respect for these individuals because they live so sacrificially, giving up many of the creature comforts you and I take for granted. They sacrifice precious time with family and friends, hot meals, daily showers, and peaceful rest. Some even make the ultimate sacrifice, giving their very lives to protect you and me.
“The LORD Almighty is mustering an army for war.” (Isaiah 13:4)
You and I may not be part of the armed forces, but as Christians we are part of God’s army. In order to serve our Commander in Chief we too must make sacrifices in the interests of others. God calls us to serve, defend, and protect those in our care. Depending on where we serve, we may experience different obstacles on the battlefield. Our obstacles may differ, but our enemy is the same.
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)
If you’re serving on the home front, the battle is up close and personal. The risks to our loved ones are immediate. We must protect the interests of our children and spouse at all costs. It can be a daily struggle to fight against the enemy who is trying to destroy our family unit, but remember…
“The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
If you’re serving outside the home, your battlefield has different challenges. Reputation, honor, and respect are at stake as we accept God’s higher standard of conduct in the work place and beyond. Satan is always on the prowl and waits for his opportunity to seek and destroy our honor and means of financial support.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)
If you’re serving on the mission field, you might face harsh conditions, rejection, and even persecution. The sacrifices are many, but the rewards in heaven will be great.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)
We must defend, preserve, and protect the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ; many lives are at stake. Serving in the Lord’s army is a lifetime commitment. As long as we have breath we are on active duty. We must give our all and be ready to make sacrifices when necessary.
Eternal lives are at stake!
“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12)