ONWARD CHRISTIAN SOLDIER
This is to give all the glory to the Trinity, the Three in One God, our Almighty God, the Father, the Creator of heavens and earth; all glory to the Lord Jesus Christ, who died and rose for our redemption; and all glory to the Holy Spirit our Helper, for counting us worthy to witness another new year.
Happy New Year 2025, the year of “Onward Christian Soldiers.”
3 You, therefore, must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier-2 Timothy 2:3-4
The theme “Onward Christian Soldier,” is an encouragement for Christians to live a life of faith and purpose, actively serving God amidst challenges in the year 2025 and henceforth. The metaphor of Christians as soldiers resonates deeply within the faith, emphasizing the daily battle against sin, temptation, and the forces of darkness. Christians are called to be vigilant, courageous, and steadfast in their faith, much like soldiers on a battlefield.
The call to action as a Christian soldier is multifaceted and demands a dedicated response:
- Spiritual Growth:
- Daily Devotion: Consistent time in prayer, Bible study and meditation is crucial. These activities strengthen your relationship with God, provide spiritual nourishment, and equip you for the battles ahead.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Cultivate practices like fasting, service, and giving, which deepen your connection with God and refine your character.
- 2 Peter 3:18, Philippians 1:6, Matthew 5:6, 2 Timothy 2:15, 1 Thess 5: 17-18
- Active Witness:
- Sharing the Gospel: Boldly and lovingly proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to others. This could involve informal conversations, intentional evangelism efforts, or supporting local and overseas ministries.
- Living Out Your Faith: Let your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate Christian love and compassion through acts of kindness, service to others, and a life of integrity.
- Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:19-20, John 15:27, Romans 10:14, Galatians 5:22-23
- Engaging in Spiritual Warfare:
- Recognizing the Enemy: Understand that you are engaged in a spiritual battle against sin, temptation, and the forces of evil.
- Putting on the Armor of God: Use the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10–18— truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God to resist the enemy’s attacks.
- Prayer: Encourage consistent, fervent prayer, seeking God’s guidance, strength, and protection.
- Serving the Church and Community:
- Active Church Membership: Participate actively in your local church, serving in various ministries and supporting the body of Christ.
- Community Involvement: Seek opportunities to serve your community through acts of compassion, justice, and reconciliation.
- Galatians 5:13, Philippians 2:3-4, John 13:14-15, Exodus 23:25-26
- Enduring Hardship:
- Maintaining Perseverance: Be prepared to face challenges, persecution, and opposition. Remember that following Christ may involve sacrifice and suffering.
- Finding Joy in Obedience: Cultivate a spirit of joy and contentment in serving God, even amidst difficulties.
- 2 Timothy 2:3-4: “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs but rather tries to please the commander who enlisted them.”
As a Christian Soldier one of the biggest obstacles, you will face is yourself. Many people struggle to enjoy spiritual victories because they have difficulty in self-control and battling the desires and the pull of their flesh. Paul spoke about this battle in Romans 7. He told us how he dealt with himself in 1 Corinthians 9.
1 Corinthians 9:27—But I keep under my body and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I should be a castaway.
The reason Paul controlled and disciplined himself was to avoid behavior that would disqualify him from being a victorious Christian Soldier. This should be our focus too.
PRAYERS
- Thank you, Lord, for the salvation of my soul. Thank you, Father, for counting me worthy to be a Christian Soldier.
- Heavenly Father, I come before You as Your soldier in this spiritual battle, equip me with the full armor of God so that I may stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
- Give me the strength to endure hardships and the courage to fight the good fight of faith.
- Protect me from all evil and guide my steps as I march forward in Your light in Jesus’ name.
- Almighty God, grant me the courage to stand up for what is right and to proclaim Your truth boldly in Jesus’ name.
- Lord Jesus, you have called me to be a faithful soldier in Your army. Help me to endure the trials and tribulations I encounter, knowing that You are with me every step of the way.
- Strengthen my faith and deepen my trust in You, so that I may remain steadfast and immovable.
- Father may my life be a testament to Your grace and power, in Your precious name, I pray. Amen.
As Christian soldiers, we are called to embody the virtues of faith, courage, and unity. The Bible provides us with the spiritual armor and guidance needed to stand firm in our convictions and to persevere in our journey. Through prayer and reliance on God, we can face any challenge that comes our way, knowing that our victory is assured in Christ.
Welcome to the year of “Onward Christian Soldiers.” May the Lord strengthen you to stand firm and be victorious through the Lord Jesus Christ in Jesus’ name.
Yours in His Fellowship,
Pastor Lillian Haastrup
