It is well-documented that not all soldiers come through experiences of warfare completely unaffected. It is one of the reasons why we should have compassion and give respect to those who do enter into the battlefield. It is not really easy until we ourselves encounter a similar situation where we can understand a little better what people go through.
This leads us to think about what Paul said to Timothy, “You must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Tim 2.3). Hardship is a funny thing. It can affect people in different ways. We might have observed those who undergo hardship: some people may end up being very stingy with what they earn, whilst others who also go through similar experiences in life result in being extremely generous. So, then this makes us think that when we are serving God, what effect is it having on us?
It is important to realize that while we are soldiering on in serving God, we do not inadvertently lose sight of the truth that situations or stages in life are to have a molding effect on our spirit (Rom 9.21). But sometimes, if we are not aware, we may become self-absorbed in whatever we do; in particular, our work for God can become our idol because attached with the work is a certain reputation. In this case, if we are not careful, we may overly concentrate on the work at hand and neglect to strive to attain to the likeness of Christ and a sense of sincere humility. Of course, this does not mean we should just do a casual job on what we have agreed to do for Him. But it does mean that we should do our best in both aspects.
Let’s think: As we are soldiering on, does our love, faith and hope become stronger (1 Cor 13.13)? If it has not, don’t give up. All we have to realize is that we need to realign our hearts back to how God wants us to live and serve Him so that we can be fully acceptable in His sight. To be honest, it is a learning process. You will understand upon reflection that God’s mercy on us is even greater once we become aware of how patiently and gently He guides and that we should be ever watchful through prayers. As you continue to soldier on, don’t forget to give yourself to God through a regular special time so that you can know how your spiritual development is progressing, and not only the work. Present yourself before God’s seat of judgment and allow His merciful hand to reveal how you are doing.
“May all glory be unto Him in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Eph 3.21)