This week I have been preparing for a memorial service for a friend. My friend and I often talked about the joy he experienced during his youth while training as a boxer. My friend was a fighter and like anyone you might describe as a fighter, there were times when he got into some fights that he should have avoided. I don’t know about you, but I can relate to that. It serves to remind me that while it can be good to have a fighting spirit, it’s important to channel that spirit and fight the good fight and not get suckered into some contest that is unworthy of our effort and our energy or our convictions and our calling.  I like the encouragement the Apostle Paul gave to a young minister in 1 Timothy 6:12,

1 Tim 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called…

This week, I pray that you would continue to fight the good fight of faith. I pray that you would let the Lord lead you and guide you in every contest, every struggle, and every potential battle that may come your way. And if you have been knocked down, I pray that you will let the Lord give you the strength, the will, and the courage to get back up again.  Here is a poem that I have been working on for my friend:

Become a Fighter

One does not become a fighter,
By throwing punches in a ring under the lights.
One becomes a fighter,
By training every morning and sparring late into the night.

And a fighter does not become a champion
Just because they always win.
A fighter becomes a champion
By getting up off the canvas, time and time again.

So, seek to become a fighter,
Bravely facing the problems and challenges of every day.
And you’ll become a champion,
By pushing through any obstacle that life may send your way.

Blessings to you, my friend. I hope that you have a great week. I pray that you will experience God’s peace and His direction every single day. I pray that you know how much the Lord loves you.