A Good Soldier of Jesus

A Good Soldier of Christ


Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 2 v 3


A good soldier endures hardship. He is used to a hard life, to travel at short notice, to be called to fight in a war he never started. He is loyal to his commanding officer. He is obedient and respectful. He would give his life for his commander and for his nation. His life in fact is always at stake. He keeps himself fit physically and mentally. He is constantly in training towards this end. He is focussed on victory for his side. He knows that strategy is as important as strength in fighting to win. He does not waste his blows or indulge in shadow boxing. He is not involved in civilian affairs. His loyalty cannot be purchased with bribe or allurement.

A good soldier is well equipped for every type of contingency. He wears his whole body armour to protect himself from head to foot. He carries his personal weapon. Similarly, a good soldier of Jesus needs to exhibit all these qualities and adopt all these habits. He should understand the mind of Christ, His commander. He will not give any quarter to the enemy to compromise the security of the wider army he belongs to. He trusts his commander that He is invincible, that neither sin nor satan nor death could defeat. Sin, satan and death had defeated virtually every other commander of any army in human history. A good soldier of Christ knows that most of his battles would be won as he spends time on his knees.


A soldier of Christ will help to recruit and train other followers. His goal is the goal that Christ has set- the salvation of every human soul. He will not develop habits that will weaken him. Rather, he will develop habits that will strengthen him physically, emotionally, spiritually, intellectually and socially. He will keep his s-word, the Word always unsheathed in his heart and mind. He will draw his strength therefrom to do whatever the commander bids him. He will be prepared to face grave risks and threats to his life but at the same time, he will not be foolhardy or tactless or naïve. He will claim ultimate and immediate victory based on the promises of God. A good soldier knows when to make strategic advances and when to make tactical retreats. A good soldier knows the terrain as well as the people he would be dealing with. He is practical and never takes leave of his senses. A good soldier would be stern and strict as well as humble and willing to learn from the humblest of human beings. Naaman, the Syrian general was a good soldier. Despite having a formidable reputation as a general and the confidence of the king, he was willing to listen to the counsel of a maid to seek healing for his leprosy. A good soldier would know where to seek remedy for his afflictions. He knows how best to use the resources available to him. He never lets down his guard and is always watchful and alert.


Prateep V Philip