Soldiers and Christians

Have you ever noticed how many similarities there are between soldiers and Christians? There are even verses in the Bible which refer to Christians as "fellow soldiers." We are definitely in a war and usually face battles daily. We also have weapons listed in Ephesians 6 that are vital to our warfare. We are part of a great army with Jesus as our commander. The similarities are numerous. I love looking for good books at thrift stores and this week came across the "US Army Survival Manual." It looked pretty interesting and it explains what to do in a host of difficult circumstances. But what caught my eye was something towards the beginning. The first chapter talks about personal qualities needed in a survival situation. Immediately I noticed how important most of these qualities were to not only someone in the Army, but to a Christian also. Here are several of them:
1. Being able to make up your mind.
2. Being able to improvise.
3. Being able to live with yourself.
4. Being able to adapt t the situation, making a good thing out of a bad thing.
5. Remaining cool, calm and collected.
6. Hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst.
7. Having patience.
Several more were listed but you get my drift. These qualities are so important for us as soldiers of Jesus Christ. Today, you may experience warfare in the spiritual realm but don't be surprised by it. You are in a war, in an army, and must be willing to fight.