CHRISTMAS SOLDIERS
The birth of John the Baptist starts the Christmas story. When he was born his father gave a prophecy that God will save Israel from her enemies and from those who hate her. “His father Zechariah…prophesied…‘He has raised up a horn of salvation…from our enemies and…all who hate us’”(Lk. 1:67-71). Since the time God made a covenant with Abraham, those who hate God also hate Abraham’s promised children. Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first…but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (Jn. 15:18-19). Israel is chosen and you are chosen. That is why some in the world hate you. The vitriol against Israel and the Church is more than malicious hatred, uncontrollable envy, unrestrained atrocities, torture, and murder; it is a demon-inspired war against the Creator. Facing such adversity the Lord surprises us with these words, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad for great is your reward in heaven” (Mt. 5:12).
WARFARE
When we are under attack it is difficult to rejoice, but remember, we have the angels. The Christmas story happened during a time of turmoil, but God’s angels were there. They appeared in Nazareth, the temple, the fields, and in many dreams. Scripture says, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, to deliver them” (Ps. 34:7).
Tribulation and warfare are prophesied but so are protection, blessings, and amazing victory. Angels have been assigned to care for God’s people and for that purpose they watch over you. Angels directed the wise men and Joseph so that the Christ-child would be cared for and protected.
Angels are watching over you today. Be careful to walk with God and pay close attention to the leading of the Holy Spirit, and you will receive the benefits. You will also be called to partner with them and with God, to rescue the weak and to overcome the forces of darkness.
Godly people, fighting a godly war, working together with angels, will always triumph over demons and evil men. In this life, there will always be attacks. There will always be battles, but those who trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, they shall not be moved. We know that greater is He who is in us than he that is in the world.The great commission directs us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel, but the great assignment is to overcome evil with good. Evil continues to grow like an out-of-control fire, therefore the good must grow faster, and that will only happen through God’s people.
We read about Jesus doing good, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and…he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him” (Acts 10:38).
That was the task given to Jesus but it is given to us as well. Look at these verses: “Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:21). “…let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Heb. 10:24). “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Eph. 2:10).
Christmas is a time for good works. A Christmas soldier is one who is full of good works. That is how we overcome evil at the spiritual level. We do it in our families and in our community. Some will step forward to influence society for good at the political level. Others will pour out the love of God with family, friends, and those they meet along the way. This is a time for every Christmas soldier to rise up.
On a personal level, there should be lots of gift-giving, the singing of joyful songs, making merry with friends, and expressing deeds of kindness with everyone. We overcome evil with good. That has become the life flow of our Christian tradition, and we should embrace it with enthusiasm.
The angels said they brought us good news of great joy that was for all the people. Some may not receive the joy, and some may even despise it, but we say, “Glory to God in the highest and peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
That is how we win the spiritual battle. We have learned the secret of overcoming evil; it begins with praise and thinking on good things. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things” (Phil. 4:8).
Some Christmas soldiers are fighting a physical war with tanks and guns. They are defending their families and their nation against demonic armies of terror and hatred. Other Christmas soldiers are fighting righteous battles in their neighborhood by overcoming evil with the good deeds and practical expressions of love. They are standing up for righteousness. Still other Christmas soldiers are holding the line of godliness with praise, celebration, and joyful singing. They are focused on the goodness of the Lord.
We pray our monthly teaching
devotional empowers & inspires you
to live a supernatural Christian life.
DR. PETER WYNS
Founder & President
Christian for Messiah Ministries
Pastor at Antioch International Church
Instructions in Righteousness is produced by “Christians for Messiah Ministries” (CFM). Dr. Peter Wyns is the President of CFM and the Head Pastor of Antioch International Church. He has served as a pastor for 54 years and ministered in more than 45 nations.
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