Fight the good fight of the faith. I Timothy 6:12

“Let’s get ready to rumble” is a common phrase used today when sports teams are going to square off in some contest. A rumble was also once a reference to a fight between two gangs. Even though in our culture this phrase isn’t as popular as it used to be, most of us have heard it and understand its meeting. Two combatants are about to go at it. For some, just the thought of a “fight” in an emotionally charged atmosphere where this phrase is used is enough to make the hair stand up on the back of your neck.

But do you realize that Christians are in a battle each day? I’m not just talking about some Christians on the other side of the world being terrorized by some warring group. Each and every day we are in spiritual battle with the evil one and his followers. We are embattled within ourselves with the temptations that would have us turn away from God and seek our own glory and pleasure. And we are embattled with the world which wants us to change so that we will fit into its mold. Let’s be honest, the Bible is not a nice fluffy book stating that we should just “all get along”. While the Bible does not advocate that we should kill all who do not follow God, we are still engaged in a battle It is a different kind of battle. Today’s fight for the most part is not with swords or guns. Our weapon is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What we learn from the New Testament is that followers of Christ will live in Heaven glorifying God andthe rest will be sent to hell being eternally tormented for their sins. That’s no fluffy book.

We have to realize that we are at war. A war that does have a physical side to it, but it also has a spiritual side.

You need to be ready and equipped for that fight. That’s why Paul told Timothy to fight the good fight of faith. Faith is something to struggle for, but its a good struggle. All fights are not bad. You are in a war for Christ but you cannot winthis battle yourself.You need to realize that it is Christ’s work on the cross that empowersyou for this battle. He is the one who calls you to be His soldier. He is the one who sends the Holy Spirit into your heart to strengthen you forbattle. When you are in Christ you are a soldier for Him!

Mr. Dave Vander Meer is the Youth director of Cornerstone United Reformed Church inHudsonville,Michigan.