Exhortation to Christian Fortitude

The Bible describes the Christian life as a battle, a warfare (see 1 Tim. 1:18; 6:12; 2 Tim. 4:7; 1 Cor. 9:27; 2 Cor. 10:4; 1 Cor. 16:13; 1 Pet. 2:11; Jude 3). If believers really get serious about their responsibilities as spouses, children, parents, employees, or employers (see Eph. 5:22-6:9), they will find that they have a real fight on their hands! The more we grow in holiness, the fiercer will be Satan's attacks.

Paul introduces this classic passage on the Christian's armor by encouraging the Ephesian believers to “be strong in the Lord.” Thus he seeks to prepare them for the fight and for the following directions. There is a dire need in our day for Christian fortitude. Before we wear the armor and wield the weapons prescribed by God, we must believe that we can use them successfully.

Yes, we are in a life-and-death battle, but it is winnable! Paul
admonished Timothy to put away from him the spirit of fear, or timidity, and “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:7; 2:1). We must act in faith on this almighty power pledged to our defense. We are not left to our own puny strength when it comes to resisting temptation or attempting great and difficult things for God. We must believe that “God's callings are His enablements” (Judges 6:14; 1 Thess. 5:24; Phil. 2:13). “Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4).