The Apostle Paul is a powerful example of one who remained true to his calling by fighting the good fight. At the end of his life, he could honestly write; “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) And this is the instruction he gave to Timothy; “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12)
Today this instruction has now been handed down to us. We are the ones who are to be making disciples, baptising and teaching them so they reach maturity, attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. We are the ones who are to be strong and courageous and stand against all opposition.
For this we need to remember the following three truths;
1. GOD’S PRESENCE MEANS HIS POWER IS WITH US
Throughout Scripture God promises to be with His people. Consider how He was with Adam & Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, the Israelites, King David, King Solomon, the Prophets, the disciples. And now, since Pentecost, all who repent, are baptised in the name of Jesus Christ and receive the promised Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38) Seeing how God has worked through all those who have gone before us should give us the confidence, courage and strength to step into what He has for us to do.
2. GOD’S PRESENCE MEANS HIS PROVISION IS WITH US
We need to believe that whatever God calls us to do He will provide what we need to get it done. This is what God said through King Hezekiah when Judah faced the threat of invasion by Sennacherib, king of Assyria. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” (2 Chronicles 32:7-8) Peter writes; “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). If the Lord is our Shepherd we will lack nothing!
3. GOD’S PRESENCE MEANS HIS PROTECTION OVER US
King David testifies; “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” (Psalm 23:5). This is an incredible promise. We can sit down to a meal with God and not have to worry about being surrounded by those who want to harm us. The Apostle Paul writes; “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3) When we are in God’s hands we have nothing to fear.