Many Christians are on the front lines of some very important battles. Some are speaking out on social issues and moral decline. Others are helping to relieve suffering and battling the effects of poverty. Still others are trying to make a difference in government or entertainment.

Sometimes these battles are won, but often the other side gains ground. It can be a discouraging effort.

When we lose a skirmish on the front lines of today’s battles, how does that affect us? We may feel discouraged, but we need not feel hopeless. We know Christ will win ultimately, and we can be encouraged because there are some things that cannot be taken away from us:

• Jesus Christ’s continual presence with us (Heb. 13:5).
• The Lord’s promise of eternal life (Titus 1:2).
• The Holy Spirit’s indwelling (1 Cor. 6:19).
• Access to our heavenly Father through prayer (Eph. 2:18).
• Spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12).

It hurts to lose a battle in the daily fight for what is right. But as Paul made clear in 2 Timothy 3, it should come as no surprise. We are called only to be faithful. And when we contemplate what Christ has given to us, we’ll never have to wonder why we should keep the faith.

  — Dave Branon