Courage in the Battle

Week 27, Monday

Sandy Smith

Be strong in the Lord . . . so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand.

Ephesians 6:10,13

We mistakenly prefer to think our right standing or our good conduct will somehow shield us from any day of evil. Regardless of what we may think, we will need courage to stand when it comes.

Despite her very slender feminine appearance, my daughter, the mother of four girls, is a second-degree black belt and tae kwon do instructor at a martial arts school in Houston. In order to compete in tournaments, she is learning to spar against various opponents. Although she has been taking instruction for many years, she did not really begin to make progress in her technique until she studied under a very proficient fighter. He gave her some expert advice:

1. Be aware. Good form is admirable, but it won’t necessarily win the battle.

2. Be focused. Concentrate on the moment, not your next move.

3. Be ready. Answer the offensive moves with a strategic defense.

4. Be prepared. Practice moves sharpen your skills but cannot substitute for the challenge of competitions.

Just as it takes courage to step into a sparring contest, so it takes courage to face the challenges that life presents each day. Some days more than others, it takes courage not to lock the door, turn off the phone, and pull the covers over our heads. Still, we get up and do the best we can. We may have good Christian “form” in that we go to church, know Scripture, and pray, but we may still feel defeated. One secret is not to think too far ahead. The Bible says not to worry about tomorrow; tomorrow has enough worry of its own (see Matthew 6:34). Next, taking up your armor including your shield of faith, which can repel the fiery darts of the Evil One, take the opponent’s blows one at a time and deal with what is immediate. Finally, as prepared as you might be, some experience you can gain only on the battlefield. Call out to God, rely on Him, and He is with you, teaching you, guiding you, and empowering you when you need it most.

Dear Lord, prepare my heart and give me courage for the attacks that I will encounter. Please cover me and fight for me. Thank You for the honor to serve under Your banner. In Jesus’ name, amen.