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The Work of Ministry

1 Timothy 1:18

The Christian life and ministry is hard work. In fact, it can be so tough at times that Paul compares it to a battle. Consider these statements from Paul to his young spiritual soldier and protégé:

• "This charge I commit to you, son Timothy . . . that by them you may wage the good warfare" (1:18).
• "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life" (6:12).
• "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim. 2:3).
• "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 Tim. 2:4).

As Christians, we are to follow the example Paul set for Timothy by preparing ourselves for battle. God never promises that our lives or ministries will be easy. If we're in denial about the reality of the battle or just not ready to fight, we will certainly lose. The battle cry has sounded. Be prepared to "wage the good warfare"!

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