by Bud Lambert
It is said about General Douglas MacArthur, one of the greatest leaders of World II, that when his troops were down, to encourage them to continue fighting and not give up hope, he would fearlessly stand in clear view of them.
As Christians, you and I are fighting an even greater battle against an even greater enemy, Satan ( Ephesians 6:12). Our fight is sometimes so ferocious we become weak and begin surrendering to the adversary. In times like these, we can be encouraged by looking to our leader, Jesus.
In the New Testament book of Revelation, chapters 1-3, Jesus paints a portrait of Himself, a portrait designed to encourage His battle-worn fighters. He pictures Himself as being not far removed from His people and their struggle, but dwelling energetically among them ( Revelation 1:3; 2:1). He is �like a son of man,� a leader who knows His people and thus, who knows exactly what is best for them ( Revelation 1:13). He is eternal (2:8), a leader who will never be defeated or who will never desert His soldiers. He has supreme authority ( Revelation 1:15; 3:7). He is powerful and durable ( Revelation 1:15; 2:18). He is genuine ( Revelation 3:7). He is all knowing ( Revelation 1:14; 2:18). And He possesses the only weapon powerful enough both to save His people and to destroy their adversary ( Revelation 1:16; 2:12). What a leader!
Whenever you feel spiritually weak and you catch yourself surrendering to sin and wanting to give up on trying to live right, be revived by spending more time in the Word, looking to Jesus.