Though it has been almost 30 years since my training at the United States Air Force Academy, that time is ingrained in my mind. The program was intense, yet the camaraderie was the most unforgettable aspect. As cadets, we were in training to be future leaders, but the best education in leadership came from following a good leader. Good leaders made wise decisions based on changing conditions; good leaders never panicked under pressure; good leaders worked on the weaknesses of their subordinates, rather than focusing on a single strength. As leaders-to-be, each of us witnessed a variety of leadership styles and was able to choose which style we most wanted to emulate.
Although most of us never will experience warfare in the army representing our countries, all of us as believers are soldiers in a much more important war. God wants us to follow Him, and the more we emulate Him, the more He will use us in leadership roles. He has all of the best leadership qualities to emulate! To be soldiers in God’s army, we need to forget about the cares of this world!
3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.
2 Timothy 2:3-5
What an interesting battle it is for believers, who are fighting powers and principalities, the heavenly host of fallen angels, rather than flesh and blood. That battle wages all around us non-stop, and if we are not following orders from our Supreme Commander, will remain in a state of constant loss. God certainly has demonstrated to us through His Word and through His Son what it takes to be a soldier in His army. Rather than destroy the opposing forces through anger, we are to change them through God’s love. What’s the best way to win a war? Have all of them want to be on your side!
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Our Lord doesn’t need us to further His Kingdom. It is not a numbers game with the winning side being the one with the most people on it. Instead, God desires for everyone to have the opportunity to accept Him or deny Him. He doesn’t need us to fight, as He has the power to create or destroy with His breath! When a man enlists in the military, He is called to serve, and that is what God asks from each of us. We are to serve Him, serve our fellow believers and even serve our enemies.
And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
Mark 10:44
18 This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare,
1 Timothy 1:18
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