Why do believers get worn out?

I was reading a very interesting article on how war in the trenches wears down the troops.
Often the battle is won by the one who can hang in the longest. Power contests between individuals are usually a test of endurance. The one who does not crack under the stress of opposition, or run from the attacks on his person, or wear out from the length of the fray wins!

Daniel makes an interesting comment on the tactics of the evil one….he shall “wear out the saints” Daniel 7:25. The word actually speaks of affliction and oppression. Satan has strategies such as persecutions, temptations, doctrinal deviations and other such frontal attacks. But when he cannot achieve his way quickly through such means, he may dig the trench and hold the line.

Trench warfare wears down the troops. You never know where the bullet may blaze from. A fresh charge may come at any moment, or not for days. Living conditions are horrible. Crowded in by walls of mud, stepping on each other’s feet, worrying about each night’s foray – it all stretches the nerves.

Many preachers and believers are near breaking point or being worn out. Snipers sneak shots at will while the army of the Lord holes up in the sanctuary, Carnality controls the contest, despair deepens and hopelessness hangs over the field like a cloud of poison gas. Some church fights go on for years. The same few contestants tie up all advances by wearing down people with continual debates, fault-finding, criticisms and just general contrariness.

In warfare, no retreat is allowed. But, stay in the shelter and eventually it becomes your grave. There is only one way out. Daniel said, “the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits” (11:32). The trumpet sounds the advance. We are called to go over the top. This is not a reckless bravado resulting in slaughter. It is a calculated offense that reveals bravery. Truth is taught, the gospel is preached, discipline is enforced, the church is led and the Lord is glorified.

Our captain has instructed us in spiritual strategy. The church is to resist the devil, flee temptation and go into all the world. Occasionally, our ranks must be pruned. But the call is to discipleship, resulting in a unified move forward.

Greater challenges have never faced us. The battle is the Lord’s. So up, and at it! Too long the enemy has worn us down. Put on your armour and prepare for war. Victory is in the field and not in the trenches.

Yes, interesting article......written 20 years ago......

Compiled By Molly Manhanga