“Spiritual warriors do not react.” (Graham Cooke, Qualities of a Spiritual Warrior, p48)
What a simple statement. One that required much retraining to understand.
I joined TWC desiring to grow spiritually in a company of others who were committed to their own growth. I envisioned a Band of Brothers type atmosphere where members challenged and stretched themselves. I started with the same determination and sheer will that I used to complete physical training and qualification in the military. Just like in the military, I found myself challenged in unforeseen ways. My notion of pushing hard to be able to do more was quickly questioned.
God brought me to Psalm 23:5 “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” He kept me seated at that table during much of my first year in TWC. So many of my ideas about my responsibility as a Christian and how to engage in spiritual warfare were confronted. I previously considered faith as something that I had to manufacture or push harder for. Situations were battles and challenges that needed my attention to win. That way of living kept me busily tossed about by the storms of life.
My time sitting at that table and completing TWC material has changed my thinking. I’ve come to see that not every situation is a battle. It may simply be bait to distract me from what is important and to lose my peace. Not every battle is mine to fight. I am called for a purpose and have specific assignments just like a soldier on a battlefield. My job is not to bounce around to every skirmish. Most of the time, I just need to stand quietly in my Christ purchased authority. Arguing about ownership of my car would be silly. Arguing with the enemy about what Jesus already paid for is just as unprofitable. What a change to be able to relax and enjoy what He has prepared.
TWC has facilitated spiritual growth and comradery. It has also brought peace and relationship with my heavenly Father that I don’t have to try to earn. I’ve built friendships with others committed to knowing God and who He made them to be. We get to share the journey and call each other up to our potential. What a great bunch to enjoy this adventure with!
Michael Davis
Warrior Commission Member
