Hold on Tight!

     “Hold on tight!” my father yelled. I gripped the roll bar in the back seat of the ’65 Willy’s Jeep, my knuckles white as we ascended a craggy, boulder-laden mountain ridge.    
     Caught in a dangerous situation, we de-boarded while my father manipulated the Jeep to keep it from rolling into a ravine. I watched helplessly from the sidelines. Filled with worry and fear, I didn't know what else to do but pray. Fortunately, my father was able to inch the Jeep to safety, avoiding inevitable demise.    
     This week, the unsettling news of the invasion of Ukraine left us feeling helpless, worried, and fearful for the safety of the Ukrainian people. It’s tough to be on the sidelines watching while the travesty unfolds. However, we don't have to feel helpless. There are things we can do:           
1)Pray. Prayer is powerful. Together, we can make a difference for those in need. 
2)Be a Christian "Soldier of the Cross" 
Remember the hymn, “Onward Christian Soldiers?” We may not be fighting a physical war in our country, but as Christ followers, we are fighting perpetual spiritual battles. So, gird up:  “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” – Ephesians 6:13
3)Stay the course. “But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.” – 2 Chron. 15:7, and “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
4)Be Strong and Courageous. – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
“Fight the good fight of the faith.” - 1 Timothy 6:12(a)
     Tough times call for tough measures. The Ukrainian people are fighting for their lives and country, but they are holding on tight. We can uphold them through our prayers, and as "soldiers of the Cross," we can be strong, stay the course, and remain firm in our faith to support those in need.      
     As the battles rage, let us hold on tight!

A prayer for today: Dear Father in Heaven, You know the needs of the Ukrainian people; we earnestly pray for their safety as they defend their homeland. Strengthen them as they endure hardship in the days, weeks, and months to come. Strengthen each reader of this blog today, and as Christian "soldiers of the Cross," may we be courageous in fighting spiritual battles against the adversary. - In Jesus' Name, Amen. 
Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.    
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