the battle

Men of God, sons of the kingdom, and ambassadors of the living One,

Oftentimes we are discouraged because we see no physical battle before us. Demon-orcs do not jump out from behind corners, attacking our women, and we have no epic swords to slice our foes in half. We say, how can we be fighters when there is nothing to fight?

Men of God, this is a great deception that we must avoid! Wake up! Look around you! We have been caught asleep for a little while by the enemies tricks. No more!
The enemy does not come out physically that we can see. Instead, he is more subtle. Brothers, there is a deep river of darkness flowing through the world, sucking at our hearts and the hearts of the people. It is a stench of evil, a living fabric of lies, pain, and hatred. It pulls us to want and pursue things of this world that are worthless and cannot fill our craving for God. It causes disappointment, gluttony, anger, fear, worthlessness, pain, hatred, and disgust. In the end, it causes the heart to rot.

Brothers in arms, it is against THIS that we must fight. Stand fast in the current and do not let it sweep you down. Hold on to those who are dear to you and those who need saving. Stab fast and quick at lies that penetrate hearts, those of your own hearts, those of others, and those of mine.
My friends, it is not for nothing that truth is called a sword!
This is the sword, the truth, the word of God, and ultimately Jesus. "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

Now, realize also: we are to brandish the sword of truth. But this is also Jesus! My friends, you do not just have the truth at your side, you have Jesus! The warrior God is working for you as you fight!

So finally, my brothers, stand firm in your faith. For "if you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.’” Isaiah 7:9
This post was partially inspired by the song "Courageous" by Casting Crowns (you can find it on grooveshark)

Honor the king, fight for the kingdom, love our Lord
In Aslans name