And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house. (Philemon 2, KJV)

Have you ever seen yourself as a soldier in a spiritual battle? Paul certainly did, recognizing his fellow believers, like Archippus, as warriors in this unseen struggle. But what does being a ‘fellow soldier’ in faith truly involve?

Archippus, perhaps a Christian minister  in the Colossae church, possibly even Philemon’s son, was given a powerful directive by Paul in Colossians 4:17: “Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.” This was more than a personal reminder; it was a call to action. In this context, a ‘fellow soldier’ is actively involved in spiritual warfare, battling not flesh and blood but forces of darkness and spiritual realms as they seek to advance God’s kingdom.

This fight isn’t just for ministers like Archippus or Paul; it’s for every Christian. We’re drafted into this ongoing struggle from the moment we accept Jesus and become God’s children in this evil world. Our battleground spans all aspects of our lives, from temptations to sin, struggles with personal prayer, health, family, or financial challenges. Here, ‘soldier’ symbolizes our continuous struggle against spiritual foes, armed with God-given weapons like faith, truth, and righteousness.

But this fight is more about victory than battle. Paul assures us that we’re not just soldiers but victors through Christ, endowed with the authority to conquer any challenge. Picture a bulldozer smoothly clearing its path—that’s how we, empowered by Christ, overcome our spiritual obstacles. 

So be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Don’t give up, but remain steadfast, fully equipped with God’s armor. This armor is our fortress in battle; we must trust it wholeheartedly—it is effective.

Meditate

Think about your current challenges. Where do you see spiritual battles in these areas? Are you standing firm as a ‘fellow soldier’ in Christ?

Apply the Word

Put on the full armor of God. Fight not just for victory but from a place of victory. Be steadfast in your faith, knowing your strength is anchored in the Lord.

Pray

As the  Father, to grant the bravery and resilience of a spiritual warrior, ask Him to strengthen you to persist in this battle, relying on His power and authority.

Recommended

• What is the Armor of God?
• Put on the Whole Armor of God
• Say to Archippus
• The Battleground of Spiritual Warfare
• How Jesus Changed Spiritual Warfare on Earth and in the Heavens
• View All Deshen Daily Devotionals

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