The Christian and Life's Spiritual Battles

No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. (2 Tim 2:4 ESV) 

Life can sometimes make us weary or worn down as wave after wave of unpleasant events, circumstances or physical conditions pound us. Don't be discouraged. 

Sometimes the LORD does not want to deliver us from the battle, but wants us to stay and fight the good fight. 

A soldier in the military fighting for his country will expect to be shot at, and possibly wounded. He is loyal and will give his life to defend his country. He considers it an honor to die on the battle field. 

Yet, his ultimate goal is to war the good warfare and win. He wins the battle both through his training, trust in his commander and knowledge of His weapons and how to use them.

Should it be so different for a Christian?

We too must know our weapons - salvation,  the Bible, prayer and all the armor of God. 

It is much more comfortable to pray to be delivered from the battle - and the LORD will sometimes, in His love and mercy, take the battle away. But should we be so surprised when He expects us to stand and fight? Christian, lift your head high. We can do all things through Him who strengthens us! (Phil 4:13)

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

 (Eph 6:10-18a ESV)