"Onward, Christian Soldier"

Ephesians 5:8-12

“Now you are light!” Live like it! “Find out what pleases the Lord!” “Have nothing to do with the deeds of darkness!” “EXPOSE them!” Pretty strong stuff.

Are you up to it? Let me point out one last thing about being a soldier. There is a time of rest and relaxation. The retirement plan isn’t bad. The medical plan is pretty good. But one of the best things is the ‘glory’ of being an old soldier. We are proud. I am proud of my medals and ribbons and stripes. I am proud of my son’s medals and ribbons and stripes and decorations. I am proud of my dad’s and my grandfathers medals and ribbons and service. There comes a time that the soldier is rewarded for his bravery and valor and dedication. And so it will be with you. Listen:

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Romans 8:18

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

2 Corinthians 4:17

“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Peter 5:4

Do you believe that? Soldiers serve out of love of God; love of Country; and love of family. But the Benes aren’t too bad either. Soldiers fight for glory and honor, too. I want you to know that those things are coming for the faithful Christian soldier. Believing that – I can say no to worldly distractions. Believing that I can ignore the pain and the sacrifice I must go through at times. Believing that enables me to say “NO” to the flesh and temptations. The enemy is the devil, the world and the flesh. We can only overcome them through our faith. Be faithful. Be strong. Keep pushing forward.

Well, I didn’t even get into finding our assignment. Vets often ask each other what was your ‘MOS” (military occupation specialty). What did you do? Christian soldiers ought to be asked that, too. What are you doing in the Lord’s army? How are you advancing the kingdom? How are you helping the cause of Christ? We each have a part to play.

In the military, all are equally important. The guy behind the lines is just as important as the guy on the front lines. The combat soldier can’t fight without supplies. He can’t fight without food. He can’t fight without training. So every vet is equally important in my mind. Some served is safe, comfortable situations – but you know what? There were important. They were needed. They didn’t get the glory or win the medals – but they sacrificed a portion of their life, too.

And you – what ever you do for the Lord is important. You don’t have to be the pastor. You don’t have to serve on the Church Board or be a Sunday school teacher. Jesus said just giving someone a glass of water in His name will not go unrewarded. So get in the game. Get involved. Get busy. Find something to do for Jesus. It will be worth it.