March Like a Soldier

Scripture:  Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid: do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Ephesians 6:13 – Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

Have you ever taken a good look at a soldier when he or she is at attention?  They stand tall, chest out, shoulders back, and stomach held in; it’s a picture of strength.  When they march, their faces are at attention; their feet move up and down in a uniformed and cadence fashion. They are a picture of order, confidence, and security if you will.  The soldier marches to the beat of a call by their superior.  They are indeed called persons!  My oldest brother, Cleveland A. Rice, Jr., served as a soldier in the army during the Vietnam War.  One day he shared some of his experiences during the War.  After hearing him share, I gained new respect for my brother.  I thanked him for his service.  I am grateful that we have called men and women who serve and have served in our military to protect our nation.  They have trained so that they are expected to be able to endure and withstand the threats and horrors common to war.  Many can recall unforgettable challenges and hardships just trying to survive in less than perfect situations.  At given points in their experience, they must make up their minds to become relentless, determined to go on despite the losses and chaos see around them.  Just as the soldier is called to maintain, and survive under hardships and setbacks; we, in Christ, are called to march like soldiers.  We must be convinced that with Jesus we can overcome every obstacle in our way.

We are called to constantly practice faith in our Lord & Savior, even under the most hostile situations (Ps. 112:1,7-8).  I have been there, too.  We can confidently know that God has not left us (He will never leave us nor forsake us – Deut. 31:6); for He is our Strong Tower and the only one we can depend (Prov. 18:10).  With Him, we will be triumphant (2 Cor. 2:14).  So remember, yes, the enemy will throw us fiery darts through difficult people, health disparities, disappointments, economic injustices, but we must stand tall and find strength in our trust in God; we have the Victory!   Our faith can teach us to love despite we are hated;  to speak and give life despite the offenses thrown our way.  We are the redeemed of the Lord; the body of Christ, and the gates of hell will not prevail against us (Matt. 16:18).  We will march on with courage,  conviction, and strength; all for the Glory of our God!!

Prayer:  Lord, thank You for Your attention to our need for examples, parallels and parables; We thank you for Your patience, as well.  You teach us and show us how to be all of who You have called us to be in this World.  Help us to honor You and readily step to Your cadence and Your purposes.  We thank You for those who are called to Your service…In Jesus’ Name-Amen!

(by Lisa Williams)