Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- May 30, 2011
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” John 15:13-14
Why do some brave souls volunteer to defend their nation and give their life if necessary for people they have never met? Why do these same soldiers beat their body into submission at boot camp, sharpen their mind through maneuvers and toughen their emotions in simulated engagements? Why do these courageous comrades care so much to fight for freedom? Love is the initiator of those who represent a country founded on faith.
Men and women with moral authority from Almighty God sacrifice because of love. Love of country causes them to proudly defend a nation built on belief in their Creator. Love of family brings back meaningful memories of home, as they are hunkered down in a foxhole. Love of Christ reminds them of His ultimate sacrifice on their behalf. Those filled with faith gaze on God and give their all for the sake of the call to protect freedom.
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2-3).
Perhaps you “adopt” a family whose loved one is stationed overseas and you become part of their support system. You pray with and for them—you check in on them to see how they are doing—and you let them know how grateful you are for the love and courage of their child, relative or friend. If you are unaware of a family connected to a serviceman or woman, seek them out from a local government official or from your church. Love supports the loving support of those that sacrifice everyday to keep you safe and secure.
Furthermore, there is a spiritual battle raging that is seen and unseen. However, this battle is different, because all Christians are called to engage the enemy on their knees in prayer and on their feet by faith. Satan seeks to deceive and destroy your character and testimony for Jesus. So, in humility and bold faith resist him and he will flee.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9a, NLT).
Pray for and financially support those who are on the front lines of faith: missionaries, ministry leaders, pastors, worship leaders, evangelists and church workers. They are engaged in enemy territory, but so are you as volunteers in the army of God. Everyone who names the name of Christ is called to enlist in this eternal battle—less the enemy destroy your family, work or faith. Fight the good fight and thank God that He wins!
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
Who in the military can I personally support, and help encourage and care for their family stateside?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 17:47; 2 Samuel 10:12; Psalm 144:1; 1 Timothy 6:12
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