Some of you may wonder how the Bible connects to our everyday life and traditions. I hope that as you have become a regular reader of my morning blogs you are seeing more clearly how God’s word can bring a clearer focus to all we do.
Today, we focus on saying thank you to our soldiers, men and women, who have given of their lives to protect our country, our freedom and our well-being. We are all so grateful for their sacrifices.
“My heart is with the commanders of Israel, with those who volunteered for war.
Praise the Lord!” Judges 5:9 NLT
Every one of us who champion the name Christian are also called to be soldiers for the Lord. We aren’t drafted but we voluntarily enlist to serve.
The service of a good soldier requires discipline, dedication and selflessness. A soldier does what their commanding officer says without question or complaint. A good soldier goes where they are assigned and does what they are told. They drill constantly while preparing for service and are disciplined in every area – eating, sleeping, uniform and tactics.
“Put up with your share of hardship as a loyal soldier in Christ’s army. Remember: 1) That no soldier on active service gets himself entangled in business, or he will not please his commanding officer. 2) A man who enters an athletic contest wins no prize unless he keeps the rules laid down. 3) Only the man who works on the land has the right to the first share of its produce. Consider these three illustrations of mine and the Lord will help you to understand all that I mean.” II Timothy 2:3-7 Phillips
As soldiers, it’s our duty to know the commanding officer and follow His orders for our day. It’s also important to realize the training He puts us through is for our best; to see that we are prepared for battle, able to come through it as the victors and that we protect those around us. The Commanding Officer has the welfare of His soldiers at heart and His goal is to see them prepared to the best of His ability.
It’s the same with our loving heavenly Father!
“ Finally, let the mighty strength of the Lord make you strong. 11 Put on all the armor that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil’s tricks. 12 We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities…13 So put on all the armor that God gives. Then when that evil day comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm.” Ephesians 6:10-13 CEV
As we say thank you to our veterans today, remember we have also enlisted in service.
We follow the lead of our Commander. We are training to serve and protect those believers and unbelievers around us who aren’t ready to take on the enemy. Young David faced his Goliath with a sling, but he knew it wasn’t his strength or skill.
“All these people gathered here may know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord’s and He will give you into our hands.” I Samuel 17:47 NLV
We all must learn to trust our Command-in-Chief. I’m grateful I’m not in this battle alone. The battle belongs to the Lord!