War a Good Warfare

This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightiest war a good warfare. . . (1 Timothy 1:18)

We pause today to say, “Thank you” to men and women who rigorously trained and have served and are currently serving in the armed forces of our great country, the United States of America. They chose to leave behind loved ones and surrender their freedom to protect ours. Thank you, and God bless you for your sacrificial service.

Paul charged Timothy to “war a good warfare,” reminding and encouraging him to fulfill the predictions concerning his usefulness in the Lord’s ministry with the Word entrusted to him. Paul’s intention was not to flatter his proven character and accomplishments but increase his sense of responsibility as he carried out the work. At opportune times, we too, as Christians, should commend and encourage faithful fellow believers, serving in their callings, fighting faith’s war, recalling, claiming, and proclaiming God’s empowering Word entrusted to us.

Encounters we face as fellow soldiers of the Lord are not against flesh and blood as those of our nation’s veterans. Ours are spiritual battles, fought daily against the powers of wickedness, and we, too, must strenuously train—God’s Word and communion with Him prepares us for such times. If entering any battle unprepared, defeat is imminent. But victory is sure when we trust God, geared up with His armor, and pray (Ephesians 6). Thank God today for our veterans; thank Him for Jesus, who died, setting us free, overcoming sin, death, and hell—a battle won only by His shed blood.