Believers in the Lord Jesus partake now of his ever-lasting salvation. No enemy can deprive them of the full enjoyment of it in glory; because "they are kept by the mighty power of God." But we are daily to consider that it is "through faith." 1 Pet. 1:5. Do we believe in the atonement of Jesus' blood? do we rely on the perfection of his righteousness? Why so? Because the word of the Lord is the warrant for our faith. Hence, O soul, exhortations from the same word to duty are equally binding on thy life and practice. The same Lord who has saved us from our enemies, calls us to watch against them. Jesus, who is gone to prepare a place for us in glory, directs us how to demean ourselves in the way to it. Christian soldiers, shall we neglect the commands of the Captain of our salvation, when his glory and the peace and comfort of our own souls are equally concerned? Surely not.
Through watchfulness many evils are prevented, many blessings enjoyed. When a christian is off his guard, or asleep when he should watch, how is he exposed to attacks, and liable to fall by temptations of the enemy! It is for our good that the Lord commands it as our duty. It is through his power that hereby the good soldier of Jesus is enabled to stand fast in the profession, power, and comfort of faith. It was Paul's joy in the view of death, that he had "kept the faith." 2 Tim. 4:7.
Would you enjoy the same comfort? strive, in the strength of the Lord, to follow his example. Check the risings of unbelief. Oppose the workings of carnal reason Resist steadfastly in the faith the subtle devices of Satan This is our duty and wisdom. So shall we quit ourselves like men of valor; like victorious saints of old, who overcame every enemy "through the blood of the Lamb."
Droop not, O believer, thy strength is the Lord's omnipotence. Lift up thy head with boldness, thine enemies are vanquished by thy conquering Redeemer. Be strong. Look out of thyself. Look to the Strong for strength. Look unto Jesus continually. Rely only on the power of his might hourly. His arm is not shortened. The reliance of faith engages his power. The cry of faith obtains victory. There is an open and effectual door by which thou shalt enter into glory; but thou must fight thy way through. Consider daily, this is our motto, "More than conquerors through Jesus who hath loved us." Rom. 8:37. "Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." 2 Tim. 2:1.
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