I woke up thinking about the purple heart this morning as we are all soldiers in a spiritual battle. Anyone who is baptized in Christ cannot opt out of this battle, the one against false apostles (2 Corinthians 11, Jude).
“And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. 13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.”
2 Corinthians 11:12-15
More than ever do we find ourselves in a fiercely growing battle of two fronts– cultural and spiritual and this hostile climate is getting worse by the day. This becomes an impetus for us to choose our friends wisely. We will never be able to avoid people who feign religiosity, but as the intensity of Christian persecution grows, it will be abundantly clear to you who your kindred spiritual comrades truly are.
“No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.”
2 Timothy 2:4
“The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Psalm 118:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6
“I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.”
Psalm 32:8
“For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.”
2 Corinthians 10:4
“For whoever has been born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world: our faith.”
1 John 5:4
“Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will also help you, I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Matthew 5:11-12
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”
Ephesians 6:10
People will always have something to say about you.
Walking on eggshells stifles the truth.
Choose to always walk in truth.