Christianity is not just a one-time acknowledgment of Jesus' sacrifice for sin, but a lifelong commitment to Him as Lord. True believers understand that they are at war with an enemy who is relentless in his attack.
We are encouraged to ... Fight the good fight of the faith. (1 Timothy 6:12)
The apostle wasn't demanding something that he hadn't practiced. At the end of his ministry, Paul testified ... I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)
In our own strength, we would lose every battle. Yielding to, trusting in, and relying upon the Holy Spirit assures victory ... for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Philippians 2:13)
We are equipped by the Lord to hold onto our inheritance ... Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Ephesians 6:13)
This unending conflict against the world, the flesh, and the devil is the evidence that we are children of light. We have come to loathe the darkness and fight against its corruption, temptation, and power.
We do not fight to obtain salvation, but to defend it.
J C Ryle - In justification, the word to be addressed to man is 'Believe ... only believe'. In sanctification, the word must be, 'Watch, pray, and fight'. Let us strive to 'mortify the deeds of our body', to 'crucify our flesh', to 'cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit', to wrestle, to fight.
Weariness may try to sideline you, but there are no 'furloughs' in this battle. The strength to 'soldier on' comes from the Lord ... Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6)
It is a good fight ... for a good cause ... with a good end.
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