SGM 2025

MARCH – the only month with an implied directive.

The Apostle Paul informs us in 2 Corinthians 10 that we are not waging war according to the flesh and that we have weapons of warfare that have divine power to destroy strongholds.  We are to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.  He goes on in Ephesians 6 to identify our true enemy as the devil, spiritual rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and forces of evil in heavenly places, but we have our own unique armor that we are to don and implement against these forces.  Paul informed Timothy that we are to share in suffering as good soldiers of Christ Jesus.  Our aim is to please the One who enlisted us. (2 Tim. 2)

Did you know that you are a part of Christ’s army?  Have you ever thought of the Apostle Paul’s writings to the Body of Christ as marching orders?  It is hard not to see many of Paul’s writings as boot camp for spiritual battle.  Sabine Baring-Gould composed a well-known hymn addressing this very topic:

ONWARD CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS

1.      Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, With the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe; Forward into battle see His banners go!

o   Refrain: Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, With the cross of Jesus going on before.

2.      At the sign of triumph, Satan’s host doth flee; On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory! Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise; Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise.

3.      Like a mighty army moves the church of God; Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod. We are not divided, all one body we, One in hope and doctrine, one in charity.

4.      Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane, But the church of Jesus constant will remain. Gates of hell can never ’gainst that church prevail; We have Christ’s own promise, and that cannot fail.

5.      Onward then, ye people, join our happy throng, Blend with ours your voices in the triumph song. Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King, This through countless ages men and angels sing.

It is comforting to know that we don’t go into battle alone - we have the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit giving us all power and authority, the Godhead on our side, a heavenly host, ministering angels, and battle buddies in our fellow believers - and we also know that ultimate victory is already ours.  If you need some battle buddies in your life, come join us for Small Group Ministry and we will armor up together.  Small groups are up and running with openings in the Thursday evening group led by myself (women only).  If you have any interest in SGM, please contact me as noted below.  Come and see…

517-750-7494                SGM Julie Schiller                   MISchillers@comcast.net