What Is Worth Fighting For?

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12

Today is Veterans Day. As a former military wife, I can personally appreciate the sacrifice our veterans have endured for our freedom today. We should honor it greatly and never forget how much entire families have endured so others could live in safety and comfort.

I’ve noticed that being a member of the military and a member of God’s Army are very similar:

A great soldier is required to live by a Code of Conduct.  How one lives a life on and off the field of battle is indicative of one’s character. Whether a soldier is a new recruit, enlisted or military officer, each one is expected to live up to higher standards.

As Christians it is necessary for us to do the same. We can’t claim to be a dedicated soldier in God’s army one minute and then destroy our testimony by practicing worldly pleasures the next. We need to conduct ourselves as one who has a higher calling. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14

It requires great personal discipline to put on a military uniform. Christians too, are told to put on the whole armor of God. Christians aren’t perfect anymore than soldiers are. However as military personnel are required to strive for excellence, Christians are to do likewise.

I am continually astounded to hear of Medal of Honor recipients who, with no regard for their own safety, bravely go back into battle to save fellow soldiers. “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 5:13 

Those few who survive are very modest about their accomplishments and never consider themselves a hero. The odds are that sometime throughout history, someone was saved by that act of bravery who hadn’t deserved it as much as the one who died in the hero’s place.

How extremely Christ-like. We’ve all had a nemesis who simply rubbed us the wrong way. In our humanity we’ve thought, Someday that person will get what he deserves. And yet Christ died for that person as well. “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die.” Romans 5:6,7. 

We are continually in combat, even in a free country. Remember the terrible days of the Vietnam War, when our military came home after completing their duty only to be spat upon and disrespected?

Today all over the world, Christians are beginning to experience that same mentality. Sadly it’s not only in foreign countries but also on college campuses, high schools and middle schools. Children can’t wear a cross, pray or carry a Bible without being taunted by classmates or professors for their beliefs. 1 Corinthians 6:13 exhorts us “Remain alert. Keep standing firm in your faith. Keep on being courageous and strong.”

A dedicated soldier follows the orders of his Commander and so should we. 2 Timothy 2:4 “No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.”

We are in a war today. We fight against the powers of Satan and his worldly pleasures. Ephesians 6:12.  Who will you serve? Who is your Commanding Officer?  Stand Fast with Christ, remaining focused on your Ultimate Victory: Eternal Life!