Onward Christian Soldiers

~ Don’t Go AWOL ~

The Bible uses many word images of the Christian and the Christian life. One common image is that of a soldier. Consider what the Bible tells us about our life as Soldiers.

Our Captain ~ Jesus Christ is our Captain, actually our Commander-In-Chief, and He leads the way for us (Hebrews 2:10).

Our Equipment ~ We have been provided with all the provisions we need (Ephesians 6:10-18) but we must utilize them wisely. One of the most important aspects of equipment for a foot soldier is proper footwear—provisions for our feet are provided (Ephesians 6:15).

Our Armor (defense) ~ There is a secular saying, “that a strong defense is the best offense.” Armor, by its very nature is defensive and we have been given all the protection we need to endure the battle (Ephesians 6:11, Psalm 18:32).

Our Weapon (offense) ~ Our offensive weapon is truth and we find it in the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17b). Truth is the only weapon we have been given and the only weapon we need. When our Commander fought with our enemy He used the Word of God in each of His battles (Matthew 4:1- 11, note especially verses 4, 7, and 10).

Our Comrades ~ The battle has been raging for centuries. Other believers are fighting alongside us (Philippians 2:25). The battle may soon be over—but it is still intensely raging today.

Our War ~ We are in a very unusual battle—one against spiritual rather than physical forces (Ephesians 6:12).

Our Enemy ~ The commander of our opposition is the devil himself and with his multitude of soldiers is bent on our individual destruction along with obliteration of our cause (1 Peter 5:8).

Our Fight ~ We are on the right side of the battle. We are fighting the fight of faith. Our fight is for truth, right, justice, and the kingdom of God Himself (1 Timothy 6:11-12).

Our Requirements ~ We are to maintain our endurance—we must maintain our focus as soldiers and not become tourists (2 Timothy 2:3-4).

Our Discharge ~ Throughout most of history “no one is discharged in time of war” (Ecclesiastes 8:8).

Our Responsibilities ~ Unfortunately during times of tough battles, some soldiers go “Absent Without Leave” and by so doing are actually traitors. The Scriptures urge us to continue fighting the faith in a strong and worthy way (1 Timothy 1:18).

Our Secret of Success ~ The Spirit of God who indwells the Christian has given us faith, continues to give us faith, and will complete our faith. Faith will give us the victory (1 John 5:4-5).

CONTEMPLATE: Sometimes being AWOL is simply hiding from the front lines. Have you remained on the front lines of the Christian battle?