Veteran Barney Barnes, Promise Keepers National Ambassador for the Military and Prisons was a fine pilot and officer during the Vietnam War. He is an inspiration to me and many others. I love his stories from his prestigious military background including his comments about “war footing.”

“War footing” describes the condition of being prepared to undertake or maintain war. As I write this, the President recently ordered the nation onto a “war footing.” This should prompt all Americans to check their footing and evaluate where and how they will make this stand.

“Footing” refers to how securely your feet are placed on the ground. For example, if you lose your footing, your feet may slip, and you could fall. This reminds me of what Paul advised, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12)

It is critical that we assume a war footing especially in view of the fear that grips so many due to the threat of the Coronavirus, or the civil unrest we’re facing, or the possible threat of war with a Middle-Eastern country.

Fear and Courage

First, we must be clear about what fear is: “A distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined.” It is significant that the threat can be either real or imagined for fear to emerge.

Secondly, let’s be clear on the meaning of courage: “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” Courage comes from the same root word as coronary (i.e., having to do with the heart). So, courage is a heart issue… not a head issue. “A fearful world needs a fearless Church.” – A.W. Tozier

Moses ordered war footing complete with strategy in Deuteronomy 31:6-8. He urged, “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

As Christians, we too are called to a war footing. But “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)

In this season in which we find ourselves, we should be greatly encouraged and filled with courage rather than fear because our God is an Awesome God. Remember, “He lifted me out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” (Psalm 40:2) This fact is true for every Christian. We have a “rock” on which to stand and that “rock” is Christ. So, don’t move off the rock!

Scripture Reading: Isaiah 40:28-31;  Isaiah 41:10

Personal Application: As you read today’s Scripture reading, take it to heart, believe it, claim it for yourself and live accordingly.

  Wendell Morton and  Jim Grassi, D. Min.

We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5