“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.”1 John 5:4-5
In recent weeks I have spoken with a couple of parents who have seen their child off to basic training at one of the military branches. There is always a bit of apprehension in their voice. That anxiety stems from a few reasons, but ultimately the reality that their child is training for battle.
Just as the military train soldiers in preparation for the battle, the Christian is in training for the spiritual warfare that is increasing on the earth. Each Christian must get ready for the difficulty now, before the difficulty happens.
Jesus writes to the church of Philadelphia and His present body of believers, “Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth” (Revelation 3:10). Everyday Christ followers are called to love God and their neighbor to the fullest walking in obedience to the Lord. We are called to live a life worthy of the Lord bearing fruit of goodness, righteousness and truth and growing in the knowledge of God. Today, we must practice putting Jesus first in our lives, because if we obey him now, we will be able to stand when the testing comes. We will be the prepared soldier.
The world is not getting more peaceful. In fact, in Matthew 24, Jesus warns of the increase of wickedness on the earth.
Our world leaders with their new deals and proclamations and security counsels cannot bring lasting peace. Modern day medicine and technology cannot breakthrough with a healthy utopia. Within our own families we see greater brokenness and the consequence of our sinful culture. Only when our Messiah returns will we have true peace, everlasting peace.
It’s time to live by the Spirit and keep in step with the Spirit by walking in all the ways that the Lord has commanded us. Jesus promises that as we keep his commands and stand firm, he will keep us! Let us take his word to heart and be prepared!
Prayer: Father God, we draw close to you and resist the evil one. We choose to meditate on your perfect word and seek you with all our heart. Do not let us stray from your decrees, but keep us steadfast in obedience and patient endurance. May your people throw off everything that hinders and the sin that ensnares and run the race that God has marked out for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
