When a soldier is wounded in a battle, he treats the wound and returns to battle. He may limp, he may struggle to carry his pack, but he returns. Likely wincing in pain, he stands beside his comrades in the battle.
Paul frequently uses images of athletes and soldiers. Perhaps among the best known is the armor of God:
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11 ESV)
As followers of Jesus, we are in a battle. Paul’s teaching might be summarized as: The battle between our flesh and our spirit that is filled by the Spirit. Or, we might simply say our ongoing struggle with sin.
As we read about the armor, we may notice that the only offensive tool in the armor is Scripture.
A friend reminded me yesterday of being intentional about Bible reminders through the day to combat anger.
So, let us remember the importance of the Bible in shaping our hearts and minds. If we have a realistic view of our sin, but that God is in and beside us at all times, we can engage the enemy who wants sin to take us out of the battle.
A while back I learned that I should not be surprised by my sin. I also know that I have the forgiveness of God. Paul reminds me that I am not condemned because I am IN Christ Jesus.
Yes, we are wounded, we are bandaged, we are limping, but in Christ, with the Bible helping us focus on Jesus, we can slow the enemy’s advance in his attempt to keep us out of the battle.
Let us not sit and wallow in a pitiful state of “woe is me”.
Let us pick up the sword of the Spirit, which may feel heavy at first, but let us use the Bible to stand against the enemy.
Remember, the war is won! Jesus has prevailed. Thanks be to God!
kingdom travelin' 