At War

The beach was quiet with the exception of crashing waves and sounds from a few of my grandchildren playing in the sand and ocean.    The air was stifling hot; the normal beach breeze was not to be found.   Seemingly out of nowhere three huge military F-16’s flew over head producing a noise that was almost deafening.  As they flew by, I leapt out of my chair, which is not easy to do with a total knee replacement.

When they flew directly over us, almost seeming to touch the waves, my heart was so filled with hope, pride, and thankfulness.  I, alone, began to chant “U.S.A” and pump my fist in the air.  Several of the grandchildren joined me. 

If you know John or I, you know that we find no eternal hope in our nation or its military prowess.   Our hope is found only in Him.  Yet, why did those jets stir emotions in me? (Please note this happened before the recent decision to return to war).

Not long after their powerful display, I returned to cool air conditioning where our entire family was staying.  Every other summer we all go to the beach for a week, a true blessing.  As I pondered my emotions, I felt the Lord whisper, “You saw those jets as a symbol of protection for your family and a country who might not be perfect but who has and does provide freedom and hope for many.”  

The Lord quickly reminded me that we are always at war, not just one country against another.  But we are at war in our minds against the lies of the evil one.  We are at war with our physical bodies when they begin to slowly decay.  We are at war with our own flesh to choose obedience over disobedience.   We are at war against dark spiritual forces of evil. 

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the comic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places,”  Ephesians 6:12

Those fighter jets reminded me that God is always fighting for us.  He is always cheering us on by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.  He has won the ultimate victory:  our freedom in Christ.

Let us not forget that we are not fighting “a person”, but evil in heavenly places.”

What are you fighting today?  Go to God’s word and remember He is fighting for you!

Hear the roar of His word.   It is louder and more powerful than any military jet.

“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all of your ways..” 

 Psalm 91”11

“The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.”

Just remember you will have to choose to “Fight the good fight of the faith.”  (I Timothy 6:12) All of our brave military men and women choose every day to fight. 

Let’s intercede on their behalf knowing Christ intercedes on our behalf.  (Hebrews 7:25)

You may be in a war, but freedom has already been won by our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Walk in the confidence of this victory.