Staying steadfast

1 John 5:19 We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.

Instead of falling prey to the devil, Christians must be aggressive soldiers recapturing the land for Christ. One goal of our spiritual battle is to prevent our enemy from having any sphere of influence in our lives.

Successful invaders are risk takers. Men and women of faith and action. The victory will go to those who move their faith the 18-inch distance from their heads to their hearts. Many Christians, however, seem to prefer comfort to conflict.

Winston Churchill believed the battlefield is the place where great issues are resolved. And I believe the great issues of our day will only be decided when well-equipped Christians invade lion country. Just as Churchill refused to negotiate until the adversary had capitulated, neither can we afford to give in to temptation or compromise.

As you encroach on the enemy's territory, remember these passages from Scripture:

Stand firm and let God's Word be your guide. We have God's assurance that we won't lose the war.(see Eph. 6:14-17).

Pray always and give thanks (see 1 Thess. 5:17,18).

Don't take temptation lightly; flee immorality (see 2 Tim. 2:22).

Walk by faith, not by what you feel and see. God's Word and His promises are either 100 percent true or they are not. Since His Word is true, your faith is the difference. Grab hold of His Word and step out (see 2 Cor. 5:7).

C.T. Studd, a missionary to China, understood the challenge well. He wrote, "Some people want to live within the sound of chapel bells, but I want to run a mission a yard from the gate of hell."

The battle has been tough recently, but I wouldn't trade being in lion country for any of the peace and comfort that depended on compromise.

What about you?

Praying that we stay steadfast
Pastor Mike