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True Warriors
by Bola Olu-Jordan True warriors in God are not afraid to go down. They know that nothing can really keep them under. Daniel wasn't afraid to go to the lions' den for what he believed in; he knew he would get up. The three Hebrew men were not afraid to die in the furnace of fire; they knew death was not final; it is better to die for God than to live for men. Joseph was not afraid to go to the prison for what he believed in, he knew that's not the end of his life. John was not afraid to be banished to the deadly Island of Patmos, he would rather die rejected by the government, but approved by God. Jesus was not afraid to go down to the grave, He knew death couldn't keep Him there. Believers in Christ are God's warriors. Warriors are trained to be gallant, even in the face of death. The righteous will be as bold as lion, the scripture says. Their confidence is in God, not in circumstances. Paul said, "for me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." (Phil.1:21). Peter told his Lord and Master, "Lord, I am ready to go with you, both into prison, and to death." (Luke 22:33), That's a perfect heart, "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." (Mat. 16:25). Jesus warned. These heroes faced death in confidence, without compromising or denying their faith. Death is not strong enough to make those who truly see God deny Him. At the point of death, Stephen said "I see the heavens opened, and the son of man standing on the right hand of God." (Acts 7:55). When Pilate threatened Jesus that he had power to crucify him or set him free, Jesus replied: "You could have no power at all against me except it were given you from above." (John 19;11). What a bold statement in the presence of him who bragged he had the key of life and death. Cowards beg for life; they die several times before death take them, but the brave live forever, even after death. These men are heroes because of their attitude to death. Anyone not ready to die is not ready to live. Esther said, "if I perish, I perish." (Esther 4:16). She did not only live, she saved her generation. God is looking for warriors that death means nothing to, but a step to life. Only those are fit to live. "...the fearful, and unbelieving... shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone." (Rev.21:8). Bola is an avid reader, prolific writer, and apostolic teacher. He is a published author of several books, including The Mystery of The Two Churches and The Normal Christian Cycle, among others. A certified Counsellor and the host of the popular Devotional, "Start Your Day with the Lord Broadcast." Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |