The holy army of God's chosen people is still at war on earth, with Jesus Christ as the Captain of their salvation. He has promised: "Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the world." Listen to the shouts of war!

Now let the people of God stand fast in their ranks! Let no heart fail! Yes, the battle has turned against us. Unless the Lord Jesus lifts his sword, we cannot tell what may become of his church in our land. But be of good courage! Play the man!

Never has the truth seemed more under assault. Ancient errors dressed in modern clothes threaten to reclaim their old thrones. False gospels multiply while the true one is mocked. We desperately need bold voices and strong hands to preach and publish the old gospel for which martyrs bled and confessors died.

But the Savior is, by his Spirit, still on earth! Let this make your heart sing! He is ever in the midst of the fight, and therefore the outcome is not in doubt.

And while the conflict rages, what sweet satisfaction to know that the Lord Jesus, in his office as our great Intercessor, is prevailing in prayer for his people! O anxious watcher, don't stare so hard at the battle below, where you'll be lost in smoke and horrified by bloodstained garments. Lift your eyes up there—where the Savior lives and pleads! While he intercedes, the cause of God is safe.

Fight as if it all depends on you, but look up and know that all depends on him.

Now, by the lilies of Christian purity and by the roses of the Savior's atonement, by all that is gentle and beautiful in creation, I charge you who are lovers of Jesus: fight valiantly in the holy war! Fight for truth and righteousness! Fight for the kingdom and crown jewels of your Master!

Onward! "For the battle is not yours but God's."