First person: Lessons for Christians living with a wartime mentality

Ken Allen and I recently returned from teaching, preaching and encouraging Baptist pastors and leaders in Ukraine. Crossing the border from Ukraine into Romania was a relief — even though we were at the border awaiting entry for four hours.

Reflecting on our trip, we believe all Christians should live with a wartime mentality. After all, we are in a spiritual war.

Below are seven lessons for Christians living with a wartime mentality:

1. Urgency of the gospel: In times of war, the brevity of life becomes more apparent. Christians are reminded of the urgency to share the gospel with others while there is still time. We are not guaranteed tomorrow.

2. Faith over fear: War creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, but believers can rely on God’s promises. Because we serve the Lord, there is NOTHING for Christians to fear. Scriptures like Psalm 91 offer comfort in God’s protection and sovereignty.

3. Community and unity: War highlights the need for strong Christian fellowship. The Baptist churches in Ukraine are “all in” in helping in the war effort. In adversity, the body of Christ can provide comfort, resources and emotional support.

4. Sacrificial love: Christians are called to serve others selflessly, even in dangerous circumstances. War provides an opportunity to live out Christ’s love sacrificially by meeting the needs of those suffering. Grisa, a Baptist pastor friend in Ukraine, has led a convoy every other week with food and supplies to a dangerous and bombed-out town. His efforts have led to a new church plant with as many as 250 people gathering for food and the Word of God.

5. Resilience in prayer: War tests your faith and strengthens your prayer life. Persistent, fervent prayer becomes essential. It has been said, “There are no atheists in foxholes.” I don’t know if this is accurate, but wartime drives people to their knees. Let us renew our commitment to devote our lives and our churches to prayer.

6. Hope in eternity: Many of the towns in parts of Ukraine have been bombed to rubble. In the face of devastation, believers have the assurance of eternity with Christ. This eternal hope gives them strength and perspective that the world cannot offer.

7. Witness through suffering: Christians enduring war can bear witness to Christ through their suffering. How they respond to trials can reflect Christ’s grace and hope for those around them. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Your suffering is momentary. Life with Christ is eternal.

These principles help in surviving and thriving spiritually.

Paul reminds us “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers … authorities … cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12).