Ozark Christian Living

Even though enemies are a sinful byproduct of life, the LORD is the ultimate arbiter of all warfare.  “And, having made peace through the blood of HIS cross, by HIM to reconcile all things unto HIMSELF …”  CHRIST won HIS war on HIS cross; and on that dark day of victory, a peace was had for all who will have it.   Opposition in this present time is birthed out of the only two family lines known to man.  We are born once as children of the Devil (cf. John 8:44); and if saved, a second birth ushers us into the family of GOD (cf. John 3:3).  Thus to be opposed is always a bad thing to the child of Heaven, for all who do so are still born once to soon die twice.  JESUS was never taken aback by the people who opposed HIM, and neither should it surprise us.  They who do oppose will never be won on the field of battle; but if they are taken, it must occur in the closet of prayer.

The New Testament in particular holds for us the tenets of Christian battle; and though unorthodox to the military mind, they are entirely consistent with the missionary mind.

• Recall often your former state as HIS enemy, and allow that to humble you: “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath HE reconciled”

• Reckon the war won, expect it so; and be not dismayed through present reports to the contrary: “From henceforth expecting till HIS enemies be made HIS footstool.”

• Remember the example of CHRIST our COMMANDER: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.  But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your FATHER which is in Heaven:”

• Reuse the Sword which bested you: “Put on the whole armour of GOD … and the Sword of the SPIRIT, which is the Word of GOD”

It is important to note the enemies we encounter today belong to HE WHO we war for.  Treat them with the charity of CHRIST that the prisoners of war become captives of grace.

“Blessed be the LORD GOD of Israel; for HE hath visited and redeemed HIS people, and hath raised up an horn of salvation … That we should be saved from our enemies”