A Lone Soldier

Watching the movie The Eagle, there was a scene when the Roman commander grouped a number of his men , locked their shields in a formation and proceeded to advance towards where a group of his men were being captive. As they advanced on the larger mass of Druid warriors , even though they were greatly out numbered because of the strength of their locked shields and movement in unison , they were able to fulfill the task. When one soldier lost his footing or struggled the other beside him on either side acted as his strength . As it was on all sides . When one was weak the other was strong . It protected them from the enemy and they made rescue of their countrymen.

Now what would have happened if they had of launched a lone soldier or even a group but had no plan of attack and each pursued a very individualistic attack. It would have met with a swift and brutal defeat. The enemy would have crushed them just by sheer volume . As to one man , perhaps a few would have been defeated but one stumble and death would be certain.

In this life as we journey through this fallen dark world , the Christian stands against many enemies that wish to destroy and devour them. Satan and his demons want to divide,isolate and create confusion. Anything to keep you away from fellowship with other saints. The world does much the same . With its busyness and constant motion , it whispers and tempts you. Putting up a constant barrage of distractions from work,to entertainment to draw ones attention away for the need of fellowship . Then the flesh relents to these enemies and in all its cleverness tells you , sleep in on the Lord's day , its been a long week or I'm just too busy to have coffee with that brother or sister . I need some me time .

It has been observed that as we move in this mad new world of social media and home entertainment we are actually becoming more isolated and individualistic than ever before.But along with this isolation , sinning becomes so much easier as well. Take the issue of sexual sin . In years past one would have to go public and buy that pornography magazine . Often just the public purchasing would shame many in saying no , their own conscience would be bolstered by knowing they would be seen and it would help them overcome. Same with those seeking an affair.They would have to go to the bars or clubs and risk being seen but now days , online one can be anonymous when seeking these things be it porn or an affair. Sure one may still be found out but the ability to sin is so mush closer to home  than it was just 50 years ago ,since its at your fingertips.

There are other temptations as well the enemy may use , and make no mistake , whatever your weak link may be , that is where you will be hit. It could be greed,anger,lust,envy,pride,self-righteousness,lying or numerous others but if one tries to fight these things alone , you will in all likelihood fail sooner or later.

God created us to be in community. At its basic foundation the family is that. It acts a rock of society . The stronger a family is the healthier a society will be . The same for believers. We are brought into the family of God. We are told to meet together,break bread and drink wine at the table of Lord as we recall His death and declare His resurrection .We are to receive the preached word , to join in worship with a common cause to glorify our Lord and then bare witness to the truth of Jesus Christ.The Church is the place we gather to strengthen one another , lift up and love each other. We are not to do so alone.

When Jesus sent out the 70 , He did so buy pairing them up. To be alone is both dangerous and opens on up to many pit falls. Just as the Roman legion joined together and were able to withstand thier enemy , when two or more Christians come together , to rebuke,encourage and love one another in Christ the enemy will tremble.


[12] And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
(Ecclesiastes 4:12 ESV)

Standing together is so needed in this world that is so hostile towards God's children. That is why its so vital not forsake the assembly  together each Lord's day. It should also move into our normal week as well. First it should start with your spouse.God has placed you together.Use this unity to strengthen your fight against sin and the enemy. Make time to pray ,read and just talk. Second meet with friends . Men with men , women with women as much as possible. Not always to go , what sins are you up to , but just the camaraderie.


[9] Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. [10] For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!
(Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 ESV)

We need each other through this difficult pilgrimage. God's word has clearly called all who profess themselves to be Christians to lock shields with one another . Lifting the one who has fallen up , for each will have their day of needing to be lifted.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon in his ministry surrounded himself with solid friends .Throughout his life they all no doubt acted as the cord that would not break at times. May we find the same . If married cultivate that garden of blessing God has given you and lock arms . If single find friends who you can count on in good times and bad.

A lone soldier is weak and God never intended us to walk alone. The Church is His community , His army and may we stand strong with the fellowship of saints.