May 18

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh."—2 Corinthians 10:3.

We walk in the flesh. God does not take me, immediately on my conversion, to the perfect security of His heavenly house. He leaves me here for a time, in a world that is filled with temptation and evil; "from every bush the lances start." Nor would He have me hide from these snares and dangers, as hermits and nuns strive to do, in cloistral retirement and seclusion. In the very midst of the world's allurements and perils He bids me bear witness for Him and for my Saviour. I move through the heart of the enemy's country. Yes, and within myself, so long as I am on this side of the inheritance He has prepared for me, there are a thousand solicitations to yield to the foe. Is not my hazard great and perpetual?

But we do not war according to the flesh. Indeed, the weapons of the world would be of no avail in such a struggle as mine. I need diviner, more spiritual, more celestial aids. And I have them. God is for me—His angels, His providences, His people, His Word, His indwelling Spirit, Himself, in His wisdom, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth. I should be baffled and routed before an hour had passed, if it were not for Him. But He can cast down strongholds and every high thing that exalteth itself. His grace is sufficient. There is nothing too hard for him. Jehovah Nissi: the Lord of Hosts is my Banner, my Captain, my Vanguard and Rearguard too.

Let my whole life be one of faith in Him. From the pomp and power of the enemy, from the subtle craft and poisonous sweetness of the tempter, I flee to the King my Friend.