Tuesday was Veterans Day, and many expressed their appreciation for the service and sacrifices of the many members of our armed forces. I say many, because unfortunately not all show the proper respect due these brave men and women. Our soldiers put themselves in harm’s way, dutiful in their response to their superiors, defending our nation from those who have made themselves our enemies. For this they are reviled by some. This is shameful. Recognizing that not all wars are popular, there remains the necessity that liberty be defended. Our debt to them is large, and they deserve our admiration.
The same lack of respect is sometimes seen among God’s people, expressed toward those who contend with error. Though our warfare is spiritual rather than carnal (2 Corinthians 10:3-5), there is a parallel need for men to stand in the breech, “contend for the faith” (Jude 3), “convict those who contradict” (Titus 1:9), and “endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3).
Just like those who have no stomach for carnal conflict, some among God’s people are unwilling to uphold those who “wage the good warfare” (1 Timothy 1:18). Fortunately, the soldier of Christ is seldom motivated by the praise of men. He soldiers on, recognizing that while men may criticize him for his militant defense of truth, his purpose as a “bondservant of Christ” is to please his Lord (Galatians 1:10).
