The Christian life has been described in many ways. In 1 Tim. 6:12 and 2 Tim. 4:7 Paul describes it as the “good fight of faith.” I am inspired by the phrase because it is so bold and assertive. Reading it while sitting in a comfortable chair removed from the pressure of life, I can almost imagine myself leading a battle charge against sin and suffering! But, if I am honest, fighting sin and temptation can be wearisome most of the time. It requires constant vigilance. . . , an idea that makes me tired just thinking of it.
In this season of my life I can be tempted to sit down and take a rest from the fight. I think to myself, “Haven’t I held my position in the battle long enough? I’ve taken some shots. Can’t I find someone to replace me for a while so I can I take a break?” As I contemplate my options I look up only to see that self pity has gained ground or that pride has secured a fresh advantage over me. I am tempted to speak as Jeremiah did in Jer. 45:3, “‘Woe is me! For the Lord has added sorrow to my pain. I am weary with my groaning, and I find no rest.’
Recently I read the following from a commentary on Proverbs (HT: CJ) which brought perspective and encouragement to me. If you read it slowly I think you will find it will bring fresh faith to you as you fight the good fight of faith:
The whole world consists of two classes, different in many things from each other but alike in this, that both are obliged to to labour all their days: they are those who serve sin, and those who fight against it. Both experience pain and weariness; sin is a hard master, and a formidable foe. If you do its bidding, you are a miserable drudge; if you war against it, you will receive many wounds in the conflict. It would be hard to tell whether of the two is the more wearied–the carnal who obeys the flesh, or the spiritual who crucifies it. Both are compelled to labour. Both are weary: the one is weary by sinning, and the other weary of sin. One of these strife’s will soon be over: the other will never cease. If sin be your antagonist, there will soon be peace; for if sin cannot be taken wholly away from you, you will ere long be taken away from sin. But if sin be, and till death abide, your master, there is not deliverance from the yoke.
- Studies in Proverbs by William Arnot
photo by Chris Seufert
July 7, 2009 at 7:37 am
This is a very strengthening post, Bill. Thank you!! Once again you have encouraged me on, as I seek the Lord’s way.
Your wife.