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Soldiers for Christ, December 2
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able
to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand
therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the
breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation
of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith
ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the
helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of
God.
Ephesians 6:13-17
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Soldiers engaged in battle have to meet difficulties and hardships. Coarse
food is given them, and that often in limited quantities. They have long
marches, day by day, over rough roads and under burning suns, camping
out at night, sleeping on the bare ground, with only the canopy of heaven
for a covering, exposed to drenching rains and chilling frosts, hungry, faint,
exhausted, now standing as a target for the foe, now in deadly encounter.
Thus they learn what hardship means. Those who enlist in Christ’s army
are also expected to do difficult work, and to bear painful trials patiently for
Christ’s sake. But those who suffer with Him shall also reign with Him.
Then who of us have entered the service to expect the conveniences of life,
to be off duty when we please, laying aside the soldier’s armor and putting
on the civilian’s dress, sleeping at the post of duty, and so exposing the cause
of God to reproach? The ease-loving ones will not practice self-denial and
patient endurance; and when men are wanted to make mighty strokes for God,
these are not ready to answer, “Here am I; send me.” Hard and trying work
has to be done, but blessed are those who are ready to do it when their names
are called. God will not reward men and women in the next world for seeking
to be comfortable in this.
We are now on the battlefield. There is no time for resting, no time for
ease, no time for selfish indulgence. After gaining one advantage, you must
do battle again; you must go on conquering and to conquer, gathering fresh
strength for fresh struggles. Every victory gained gives an increase of courage,
faith, and determination. Through divine strength you will prove more than a
match for your enemies.—
The Signs of the Times, September 7, 1891
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