Soldier

 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 2:3 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/2ti.2.3.ESV

Most of us shy away from suffering. The fact of suffering is why many question the existence, goodness and power of God. Yet soldiers embrace suffering for the greater good.

Paul isn't saying that we literally have to bear arms for Christ. Jesus Himself commanded Peter to put his sword away, warning him that those who live by the sword die by the sword. Paul is using a metaphor here.

Jesus's Kingdom is not of this world. We don't literally draw blood to establish His Kingdom on earth. His Kingdom won't be established in all its fulness on earth until He returns to establish His eternal, universal reign.

Being a soldier is about being part of a band of brothers. Soldiers share in each others' suffering. Similarly, Christians are to support one another.

'Sovereign God, please help us to share sufferings as soldiers of Christ. May we fight for the salvation of the souls of those around us, for Your honour and glory we pray, amen'

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