We are at war. And I am not just talking about our nation. I am talking personally. YOU are at war. And Paul gives great instructions to young Timothy about your warfare. He explains how a soldier should act and react to things. But probably the most important lesson to keep in mind is this found in 2nd Timothy.

2nd Timothy 2:4
"No man that warreth entangles himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who has chosen him to be a soldier."

Do you ever wonder why American soldiers can't go off and fight a war while coming home to their families each night? If you are at war and if your life, as well as the lives of many others are at stake, you cannot afford to have your mind on "home" things while you are trying to fight a battle.

Your life depends on you keeping your mind set on the goal at hand and that is the enemy. I feel this is what Paul is trying to tell us. Keep your mind set on the war at hand. Don't get tangled up with the affairs of this life that you stop thinking about the fact that you are on enemy territory. This "world is not my home, I'm just passing through". There are land mines and traps set around me and if I take my mind off of this war at hand, I will find myself stepping into things I shouldn't. Traps that can cause harm if not death.

Prayer:
"Lord, I am a soldier who needs assistance in keeping my mind on the war at hand. Help me not to worry about the things in this life but rather worry about pleasing you. Help me to avoid the traps that have been set to try and get me to fall. Help me keep my eyes on YOU!"