Growing up in Iran from the age of eight months to six gave me a true understanding of the freedoms we have in America. I lived behind bars on our doors and windows, and with body guards. I lived in constant fear and saw the injustice in the streets. I understood the need to help people who do not have the ability or resources to protect themselves.
I hate war and the devastation it causes. However, because we live in this broken world with imperfect people and the evil one roaming about, there are times we must step in. God’s word is clear that we are called to help the helpless.
Why We Need Soldiers
“This is what the LORD Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.” Zechariah 7:9 (NIV)
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)
Unfortunately, the devil has people who are willing to do his evil and our spiritual battle must be fought in the flesh. There are times when Christ disciples are called to help and fight. We all have skills, roles, and ministries God specifically designed us for. (1 Peter 4:10-11) (1 Cor 12:5) Some of God’s children are also called to be soldiers.
Understanding the Privilege to Live in America is Vital to Our Survival
What would our world be like if we never stepped in and stopped Hitler? Living in America is a privilege that must be understood. If you ever go to a true third world country and spend time with the ordinary and poor people, you will see the fear, injustice of twisted power, and true poverty.
If you have grown up in America without knowing about the majority of the countries that strive each day just to each and survive, you have no way to grasp their daily reality. It’s easy to become focused on “your rights and freedoms.” However, self-focus prevents you from realizing the cost many soldiers and their families have paid to help others and to keep America a democracy.
When you live in an undemocratic nation, they decide who lives, dies, has power and money, and the punishment is based on their desires and unhealthy standards. You have no voice. Any attempt at speaking up, stating your rights and freedoms, or having an air of entitlement is met with death.
The value of your life depends on how you serve them. You are a commodity and disposable for any reason. Living in these realities must awaken us to the wonderful country we live in, the United States of America.
Christ’s Disciples are in God’s Army
As Disciples of Christ, we are all in God’s army. We must never forget that our battles are primarily spiritual. Every day we are called to put on the full armor of God and be prepared for anything the enemy since our way. The apostle Paul tells us.
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we[a] are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Eph. 6:11-18, NLT)
In America, most of our battles our spiritual and we must be prepared. As we fight the spiritual battles and share Christ’s saving Gospel and hope, people have the opportunity to choose to follow Jesus and live in his peace. Through Christ we can bring unity, kindness, equality, and respect but each of us must choose.
How to Honor All Soldiers Past and Present
As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us remember those who have fought for the voiceless, helpless, powerless. Let us be thankful to live in a country that believes in helping oppress people. Let us also be grateful for men and women who are called to bring value to all people.
I’m proud that my father served in the Air Force for 27 years. He received several medals and honors. His sacrifice and the things he saw affected him in many ways for the rest of his life. However, he never regretted helping, saving, or defending the helpless. He was a soldier in God’s army and in the Airforce for the United States of America. I salute his sacrifice, strength, and willingness to die. Thank you dad!
“On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind. As a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind.” – Dan Lipinski
