As Christians, we aren’t promised a problem free life. In fact, some even say the Christian walk can be a battle. The conflict between good and evil has been going on forever, and now we are caught in the middle. False teachers were emerging, and Paul’s counsel to Timothy shed wisdom on how to face those battles.
How do we avoid catastrophe on our own faith journey? How do we recognize false doctrine and evil in disguise? Paul’s example of faith being shipwrecked would have been powerful for the people of his day when disasters at sea were more common. This idea of people’s faith being tested was happening then and it’s happening now.
Paul’s counsel is brilliant. Cling to your faith. Cling. Don’t let go. We should be clinging to Jesus knowing that he will never leave us. If we let go, the battles of the world are real, and our destiny is not clear. Part of clinging is being mindful of what Jesus would do. What does God’s word say? Seeking God’s guidance should always be our “go-to.”
Timothy isn’t the only one to encounter opposition by others trying to get him off course. Can you think of a time when someone you knew, and maybe even trusted, tried to derail your faith and make you question your beliefs? How did you handle that situation?
Is it possible we could become enamored by the world’s enticements? It seems more and more like “tolerance” is the norm, and behaviors once considered intolerable are now accepted and embraced as “good.” Many times, the behaviors we’re supposed to “tolerate” are sinful. What happens then? This is truly a war, a war over the faith.
To fight the good fight, we need to equip ourselves with God’s word. Drawing near to the heart of God will give us an assurance and peace that we are protected. Psalm 119:105 is one of my favorite images of God’s word. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Simple, yet powerful. The truth is available. Pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal it to you.
As in any good battle, we are not fighting alone. God has surrounded us with other warriors of the faith. Staying spiritually accountable with other liked-minded people is a powerful weapon. Remember one of Satan’s common strategies is to separate people from the body of Christ. He does this through discord, gossip, apathy, jealousy, etc. You’ve probably witnessed and been saddened by this.
Are you currently involved in any Bible study groups or faith communities where you support one another? Jesus’ promise in Matthew 18:20 is profound. “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”
What battle are you fighting right now? Are you clinging to Jesus? Take some time to just imagine what that looks like for you. Do you need to hold on just a little tighter?
Let’s pray. Father God, thank you that we can cling to you and be made whole by your faithfulness. Help me to always seek your will for my life. Keep me strong to fight the faith battles that come my way. Thank you for the soldiers of faith you have put in my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
