Civilian Affairs

Despite popular opinion the Christian life is far from boring. As Christians the bible paints us as soldiers on a mission of utmost importance and constantly in the midst of war and battle.

Now I'm not saying this to make Christianity seem 'cool'. As I mentioned before, this is actually how the bible instructs us to be. Our mission statement is found in Matthew 28 and our weaponry and armour in Ephesians 6. However, if we closely examine our lives we'll find that most us (including myself) fall very short of this military lifestyle, and were we in an army of flesh and blood, rather than promotion we would probably be facing a dishonourable discharge.

A soldier has a clear purpose and focus. He is constantly training himself and always obedient to the call and command of his leader. When at war, soldiers are constantly prepared and equipped for a possible attack from the enemy. Could you imagine a camp under siege in which the soldiers within didn't defend themselves because they were on their 'break'? Or because they were 'off-duty'? Hardly. Rather a true soldier is primed in and out of season to attack or defend as necessary.

Soldiers are paid and commissioned to go out and fight for whatever cause and they do so wholeheartedly. As Christians we were bought by the blood of Christ and now he commissions us to go into the world and make disciples of all nations. Are you living a life of a true soldier? If soldiers of this world can sacrifice their lives for their country, how much more should we be dedicated and willing to promote the cause of Christ? How come we as Christians are oftentimes so laid back and complacent about the spreading the Good News?

The answer is simple...focus. We are so dispassionate about the God's will because rather than living the life of a true soldier at war, we have conformed to this world and now we are nothing more than civilians. We have lost our focus. We are like soldiers who upon passing through a certain town on their way to battle, become so caught up in the customs and attractions of the town that they forget their duties and set up camp in this place, neglecting the urgency at hand.

So this is just a reminder to all Christians, including myself. Stay focused and stand firm in the faith. Don't be conformed to the patterns of this world but rather be constantly transformed by the renewal of your mind. Remember we are aliens on this earth, only passing through. The biggest mistake we can make is to get caught up in civilian affairs.

Selah