Except for the number 458 on her bright yellow ear tag, the cow looked just like all the other Black Angus in Ken’s herd. Her disposition, however, clearly distinguished her from her companions when I attempted to drive her through the pasture gate. “Look out for number 458!” Ken shouted. “Her name is Fighter—and she’ll take on both you and your horse!” The look in Fighter’s eyes as she snorted and turned to face me was convincing proof that Ken knew what he was talking about.

This world is filled with people like Fighter who demand their way and are well practiced in shoving aside any obstacle in their path. How do we respond when we are the obstacle? Should a Christian be a fighter?

When pursued by Pharaoh’s army, Moses told the Hebrew people, “Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD . . . The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:13-14). Jesus told Pilate, “If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight” (John 18:36). While the use of force is appropriate in dealing with livestock, Jesus’ example clearly showed that heartfelt love and forgiveness is by far the most effective way to deal with contrary people.

However, “the whole armour of God,” including “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:13-17), is essential to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). Overcoming evil with good is an apparent impossibility that the world scornfully rejects, but the example of Jesus and His disciples has proved to be the only response that works. May we all be faithful fighters in the spiritual warfare that every believer is engaged in.

Hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 1 John 2:3

~ Pete Lewis