I received this email from a friend of mine who wrote after reading my last post about the problem with loving enemies.
Not only is He in the military but he’s also in a combat unit and is often assigned to special and elite units and missions. I asked him if I could share his email because I found it inspiring. It’s not where he comes out at the end (because he leaves with just as many questions) but it’s that he’s willing to wrestle with a very difficult issue.
I applaud his courage. This email is a beautiful representation of the type of relationship God wants with us. It’s an intimacy that’s not afraid to ask questions.
Jesse,
Hello again brother. I have to say this message is so very timely. This is something I've wrestled with for many years now myself. I always took that scripture to heart and chose love over violence. But as you know, I'm also a military man (as many others out there who love God). But Over the last few years, it hit me on a whole new level! I never before felt such a conflict of interest as I have over the last few years. Perhaps there isn’t a conflict of interest. But as a man of God, especially walking in this new covenant identity, the more I've grown spiritually over the years the more it tugs on my heart. Warfare isn't God's best.
But then I think back to the Bible (of course it's Old Testament) where David and other men of God killed thousands without batting an eye. Also where God specifically told the Israelites to kill men, women, and children and spare not one during the conquest of Canaan! I also think back to the many, perhaps thousands, of men of God who went before us in battle to secure our freedom as Americans in major battles and wars all the way back to Gen. George Washington (who was a very godly man) and the Revolutionary War. And millions of other battles Christians had to fight over the centuries and did their job as soldiers unto the Lord.
Of course I'm neither arguing for or against, only thinking through all of the angles. It's unfortunate in the fallen world we live in that there will always be war because the heart of man is wicked. Also criminals and/or terrorists have to be stopped, captured, or killed. If we don't defend our homeland who will?
There's a famous saying that goes something like, "All that is needed for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing."
I believe that men of God can be soldiers, policemen, etc. But is it God's BEST?
NO! I definitely believe it's not. Never before and even as a Pastor while serving in military combat arms did I ever think it’s God’s best. I’ve even argued with others who have pointed to their Bibles as many men of God all throughout were great soldiers who killed thousands as well as our forefathers and those who went before us.
But over the last year or two, especially with this never ending 14+ year war, countless lives have been lost with so much bloodshed, hurt and families destroyed. Economies, budgets, veterans and trillions of wasted taxpayers’ dollars for what? What have we gained?
I was all for the war 110% even up until about 3 years ago or so. But my spiritual man over the last few years has been crying. Where does the killing end? How do we end it? How do we stop it? And of course if we just pull out the terrorists could take over and attack American soil again.
I was just crying to my wife about this exact thing a few moments before reading this, saying the exact same things you said! I don't know what to do. Is there an answer? I hope we can find an answer soon because I love these "enemies" through Christ.
The Bible says none is righteous no not one. They just don't know any better. Sadly, most are just religiously brain washed with false demonic doctrine. Satan is the real enemy not them. We are in a spiritual battle. Yes there's a better way.
God bless your heart my brother
-Annoynmous
Blessings,
Jesse and Kara Birkey
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Jesse and Kara Birkey are committed lovers of Jesus who seek to show others the extraordinary life of Jesus is available for everyone. They have authored two books, been featured in films and seek to serve the Lord in whatever ways they can. Follow their blog here.
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Life Resurrected, Extraordinary Miracles through Ordinary People has been endorsed by Sid Roth and Mark Virkler and is a collection of inspiring stories making it clear that the extraordinary life of Jesus is available to all who love Him. It’s also the testimony of Jesse’s life, the road he travelled bringing him into the arms of Jesus. Get the paperback here. Get the Kindle Version Here. View the trailer here.
Marriage What’s the Point? One couple finds meaning in a crazy mess is the story of their marriage—The tragedy and the restoration. They bear their hearts in an attempt to get others to bear theirs and finally receive the freedom they’ve longed for. Get the paperback here. Get the Kindle Version Here.
Jesse is also featured in the film DeadRaiser, a movie shining the spotlight on resurrection testimonies across the nation. Find more information here
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