Coming of age during the Vietnam War era made me resistant to the Bible’s passages on warfare — physical and spiritual. I wanted a peace, love and groovy Christianity led by a peace, love and groovy Jesus. Of course, I encountered the real Jesus, Who wasn’t the least bit interested in conforming to my culturally influenced expectations of Him.

So I learned that following Jesus necessitates warfare against the world, the flesh and the devil. Although I can fight these enemies only by complete reliance on the Lord, I can’t  be a Conscientious Objector. As a Christian, I’m automatically conscripted into His service.

So are each of you.

That being the case, let’s prepare ourselves to stand up for Jesus, even when the battles seem relentless and discouraging. Christ Himself always goes before us, reminding us that He has already secured victory. His ultimate triumph allows us to follow Him into the fray with rejoicing. He will indeed conquer and reign!

Note: next Saturday Justin Peters will be at First Baptist Church Weymouth (where John and I are members) leading a Discernment Conference. Because of this conference, I won’t be posting either a Saturday Sampler or a Sunday Hymn next weekend. I apologize for any inconvenience.

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