Following World War II (I know, ancient history to most living today), the United States of America began the business of rebuilding nations. Quite successfully, if you look at Germany or Japan today. Unsuccessfully, if you look at Korea, Viet Nam, Lebanon, Somalia, Afghanistan or Iraq.
Rob Enderle’s “IBM’s Best Battle Strategy May Be To Avoid Wars” has some interesting history lessons regarding competition in business, and one paragraph that made me stop and think very seriously about when to contend (Jude 1:3):
After the Cold War, we stopped focusing on the leaders of global growth (India and China) and started focusing excessively on the losers (Taliban and Al-Qaeda) – he says it should be no surprise is that we are starting to look more and more like the losers, falling seriously behind China.I cannot cite the source of the following quote, but I see its application here, too: Never go into battle where there are no spoils.
No, this is not about geo-politics, nor business strategy, but it does bring to mind IBM’s corporate motto, “Think,”as it applies to Christians.
How are Christians to battle? Take a look at the whole armor of God:
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (Ephesians 6:14-17 KJV)
Every item there, except the sword, is defensive. Got that? Think about it. It bears repeating: Every single part of the armor is defensive, except the sword. That’s God’s word. Remember, it does not return to Him void (Isaiah 55:11) God-breathed, inspired. When it’s time for us to use it, the words will be provided.
But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. (Mark 13:11 KJV)
Look at the circumstances – “lead you, and deliver you up” doesn’t sound as though Christ is speaking to someone who went looking for a fight, does it? At times it comes to us unexpectedly when we quote the Bible. It did for a high school student in the Metroplex this last week.
Christians depend upon the Bible as God’s word. As I ask my readers to check out the verses posted, I depend on God’s word to speak to their hearts. Not my words – they are simply bubble wrap. The Bible as we see it was inspired by God to reach out to mankind. What I write won’t be remembered through tomorrow – His is designed to last an eternity. Nothing I can say will add to His word.
Amen, it gives me all the answers I need to solve any problem I may have, God's word, there is nothing else that can compare to it, have a very blessed weekend, Hugs
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