The Christian Warrior: Prepared for Spiritual Battle

Introduction

In today's world, we often hear about physical battles and wars, but there's another kind of warfare that's just as real and even more important: spiritual warfare. As Christians, we're called to be soldiers in this spiritual battle. The Apostle Paul reminds us in II Timothy 2:3-4 (KJV), "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier."

Every day, whether we realize it or not, we're in the middle of a spiritual struggle. The devil, our enemy, is constantly trying to pull us away from God. His goal? To destroy everything good and godly in our lives. As Jesus said in John 10:10 (KJV), "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

But here's the good news: God has a plan for us too. He wants us to have a relationship with Him and to experience eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ. It's like we're caught in the middle of a tug-of-war between God and the devil, and we have to choose which side we're on. There's no sitting on the fence in this battle!

This spiritual warfare isn't just about physical fights. It's a battle of ideas, values, and beliefs. It's God's principles versus the devil's lies. It's God's kingdom against the devil's forces. And as the battle rages on, it seems to get tougher every day. The enemy's attacks are relentless, and his tactics seem to know no bounds.

So, how do we prepare ourselves for this spiritual battle? How can we be good soldiers for Christ? Let's look at some key characteristics we need to develop:

1. Demonstrate Allegiance to God

First and foremost, we need to show where our loyalty lies. James 4:7 (KJV) gives us clear instructions: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This verse contains two important commands: submit and resist.

Submitting to God means putting ourselves under His authority. Just like in any army, good leadership is crucial for victory. We need to recognize God as our Commander-in-Chief and follow His orders. This means aligning our will with His and living according to His Word.

Resisting the devil is the other side of the coin. We can't just passively hope the enemy will leave us alone. We need to actively stand against him, opposing his temptations and lies at every turn. As Peter advises in 1 Peter 5:8-9 (KJV), "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world."

2. Be Tenacious and Durable

A good soldier doesn't give up easily. Paul encourages Timothy to "endure hardness," which means being ready for tough times. We shouldn't let discouragement knock us down. We need to be prepared for battle at any time, day or night.

This toughness isn't about being physically strong or having a thick skin. It's about relying on God's strength. Ephesians 6:10 (KJV) reminds us to "be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." We can't defeat the enemy in our own strength – we need God's power working in us.

One of the best ways to tap into God's power is by renewing our minds. Romans 12:2 (KJV) says, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." This means constantly aligning our thoughts with God's truth, replacing worldly thinking with godly wisdom.

3. Be Deliberate in Your Actions

Paul warns that a soldier shouldn't get tangled up in everyday affairs. This doesn't mean we ignore our responsibilities, but rather that we keep our priorities straight. Our main goal should be to represent Jesus well in the battle and ensure His victory.

Distractions can be dangerous in spiritual warfare. They can leave us vulnerable to the enemy's attacks. That's why we need to be intentional about drawing near to God. James 4:8 (KJV) gives us this wonderful promise: "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you." All we need to do is take that first step towards God, and He'll meet us more than halfway.

One powerful way to draw near to God is through prayer. The Bible is full of examples of how prayer can strengthen us for spiritual battle. Jesus Himself often withdrew to pray, especially before facing major challenges (Luke 5:16, KJV).

4. Show Love

Love might not seem like a warrior's trait, but it's actually one of our most powerful weapons in spiritual warfare. Jesus said in John 13:35 (KJV), "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." Our love for God and for others is what sets us apart as soldiers of Christ.

This love isn't just a feeling – it's an action. As 1 John 3:18 (KJV) says, "My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth." We show our love through how we live, how we treat others, and how we respond to the challenges we face.

A good Christian soldier should be moved by the state of the world around them. We should be concerned about those who are lost and heading towards eternal separation from God. It should bother us that our Lord is unwelcome in many parts of the world. This burden should drive us to action – to reach out to others with the love and truth of Christ.

Preparing for Battle: The Armor of God

Now that we've looked at the characteristics of a good Christian soldier, let's talk about our equipment. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul describes the "armor of God" that we need to put on for spiritual battle. Let's break it down:

1. The Belt of Truth (v. 14): This represents honesty and integrity in our lives. We need to be grounded in God's truth and live it out daily.

2. The Breastplate of Righteousness (v. 14): This protects our heart – our emotions and will. It represents living a life that's right with God.

3. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace (v. 15): These prepare us to share the good news of Jesus with others, bringing God's peace wherever we go.

4. The Shield of Faith (v. 16): This protects us from the enemy's attacks – the doubts, fears, and temptations he throws our way.

5. The Helmet of Salvation (v. 17): This protects our mind, reminding us of the security we have in Christ.

6. The Sword of the Spirit (v. 17): This is the Word of God, our offensive weapon against the enemy's lies.

7. Prayer (v. 18): While not a piece of armor, prayer is crucial in spiritual warfare. It's our direct line of communication with our Commander-in-Chief.

Strategies for Spiritual Warfare

Now that we're equipped, let's look at some strategies for engaging in spiritual warfare:

1. Know Your Enemy: We need to be aware of the devil's tactics. As Paul says in 2 Corinthians 2:11 (KJV), "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices."

2. Stay Alert: Peter warns us to "be sober, be vigilant" (1 Peter 5:8, KJV). We can't afford to be spiritually asleep or distracted.

3. Stand Firm: Paul repeatedly tells us to "stand" in Ephesians 6. Sometimes, victory in spiritual warfare comes through simply not giving up or giving in.

4. Use Your Weapons: Don't just carry your sword (the Word of God) – use it! Jesus defeated Satan's temptations by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).

5. Pray Continuously: Paul tells us to pray "always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit" (Ephesians 6:18, KJV). Prayer should be our constant state.

6. Work Together: We're not in this battle alone. We need to support and encourage our fellow soldiers in Christ.

The Cost and Reward of Spiritual Warfare

Being a soldier for Christ isn't easy. It requires sacrifice and perseverance. Jesus warned His disciples, "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, KJV).

We might face hardships, persecution, or ridicule for our faith. We might have to give up certain comforts or pleasures of this world. But remember, our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ, has already won the ultimate victory. We're fighting from a position of victory, not for victory.

And the rewards? They're out of this world – literally! Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV), "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Conclusion: The Call to Arms

As we wrap up, let's remember that being a Christian soldier isn't a part-time job or a hobby. It's a way of life. We're called to be ready for battle at all times, to stand firm in our faith, and to advance God's kingdom here on earth.

The apostle Paul, nearing the end of his life, could say with confidence, "I have fought a good fight" (2 Timothy 4:7, KJV). Can we say the same? Are we fully engaged in this spiritual battle, or are we sitting on the sidelines?

Let's heed the call to arms. Let's put on the full armor of God, take up our positions, and fight the good fight of faith. Remember, we're not fighting for victory – we're fighting from victory. Christ has already won the war; our job is to stand firm and advance His kingdom until He returns.

So, soldier of Christ, are you ready for battle? The trumpet is sounding. It's time to march forward in faith, armed with God's truth and empowered by His Spirit. The battle may be fierce, but our God is fiercer. As Romans 8:31 (KJV) reminds us, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" 

Let's go forth boldly, knowing that we serve the King of kings and Lord of lords. In His name and for His glory, we fight. And in the end, we will stand victorious with Him for all eternity.  Now, if you want more resources to cultivate your faith you can enter here at I Got a Word Outreach.