You are at War. Start Acting Like it.

War is a difficult concept because it’s centered around the dark nature of man and his inevitability for conflict. It is a big truth, one so horrible that few want to discuss it; war also seems at odds with the saccharine worldview portrayed by many Protestant branches of the faith.

But war must be recognized, because we are at war against invasive humans who want to take our jobs, home, and land. We are at war against communists who want to subjugate us, we are at war against our fellow countrymen, and we are at war against spiritual enemies who move these sad idyllics around like pawns on a chessboard.

How do I know? Well, my generation matured during 9-11. We were raised on war, or at least a good portion of us were. We were tasked with going to Iraq and infused with just enough patriotism to fight and die. So, for us, and for my family especially, war became a lifestyle, something we lived within rather than studied without.

I am not a brilliant military strategist, but I do know the fundamentals, and just because there isn’t obvious bloodshed doesn’t mean we aren’t at war. In fact, some of the best wars appear peaceful while making sad subversive plans for massive violence, and we are currently engaged in this kind of war.

Since most churches aren’t doing much to prepare you, here are a few pointers from an old soldier:

1.) Facts may not care about your feelings, but war will absolutely pulverize them. Therefore, stop following your heart when it comes to big decisions. Rather, think with your head, and only when you are calm and collected. I use the upcoming election as an example. Do not, for the love of God, pick a candidate based on how they make you “feel.” They are not there to give you warm fuzzies (that is what cats are for 😊); they are there to lead the country, and they either have the ability or not, regardless of your feelings. If you can’t figure this out without getting emotional, do not vote.

2.) Stop playing the enemy's “racist” game. They’re going to call you racist and a whole lot of other things; learn not to care. I ignore them, or sometimes wink and reply with “keep calling people racist, and pretty soon they will be.” Then I walk away, leaving them to figure out what the heck I just said. Trust me, they are WAY more racist than you could ever hope to be, and a good amount of this is projection.

3.) Turn off the stupid glowing boxes. At least, as much as you can. While there is some good programming out there, most TV is enemy propaganda. I recommend reading or listening to audio books, playing strategy games like Chess or Axis and Allies with friends or turning some of that screen time into gym time. All of these suggestions will sharpen your mind and body.

4.) Appeal to the Grand General for marching orders. God is your commanding General, therefore you should be tuned into Him. Turn some of that time screen time into prayer/meditation time. I have lately started listening to Latin Chant which I find very centering; It is easily found on Youtube. Try some of this in addition to your prayers.

5.) Study some of history’s great battles. The American Civil War can teach you a lot about geography and basic infantry techniques. The failings of Napoleon and Hitler will give you a lesson in logistics, and the battle of Lepanto reminds us that all physical wars have a spiritual component. These are just a few examples; there are many great battles. Pick one or several and dive right in. One fun technique is to grab a bag of plastic army men and set up battle scenes. (This is a particular winner if you have kids).


That is all for today, soldiers. I’ll be back next time with more tips. For now, I’ll close with this. You are at war Christian, start acting like it. And no, “being nice” isn’t going to cut it this time.