In the Fight | Feb. 18th

“I have fought the good fight,...”

   2 Timothy 4:7

  Beloved, it is regrettable that, in contemporary times, the Gospel is often portrayed merely as a means of personal improvement. While it is true that receiving Jesus brings transformation, He is not simply a means to an end. Unfortunately, the ongoing struggle inherent in this new, blessed life is frequently overlooked.

  Christ has ransomed us from our sins and delivered us from the kingdom of darkness. Now that you belong to the kingdom of the Son, that darkness will assail you. The tempter, the spirit of this age, and our own flesh will war against us. Each day, you must crucify yourself in Christ and count yourself dead to this world. It is a struggle.

  This struggle can be overwhelming. It weighs on the mind and spirit. It is constant and will not end in this side of eternity. Like Paul, we must fight the good fight by being strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. In Christ, we find victory. We can ask the Holy Spirit each day to help us overcome by His strength, and when we are tired, trust in the mercy of God to keep us.

  Resolve to engage in the spiritual battle today, not by relying on your own strength, but on God’s. Remember that the victory has already been secured, and your ultimate reliance is on Christ and His sustaining power.