The post of honor in war is so called because it is attended by difficulties and dangers to which but few are equal; yet generals usually allot these hard services to their favorites and friends, who on their part eagerly take them as tokens of favor and marks of confidence.

Should we not, therefore, account it an honor and a privilege when the Captain of our salvation assigns us a difficult post, since He can and does inspire His soldiers, which no earthly commander can, with wisdom, courage, and strength suitable to their situation?

Listen to Ignatius shouting as the lion’s teeth tear his flesh, “Now I begin to be a Christian!”

The Christian’s badge of honor here has ever been the Cross.

No church or movement can survive unless it is ready to be crucified.

BISHOP OF WINCHESTER

If I did not see that the Lord kept watch over the ship, I should long since have abandoned the helm. But I see Him! through the storm, strengthening the tackling, handling the yards, spreading the sails—aye more, commanding the very winds! Should I not be a coward if I abandoned my post? Let Him govern, let Him carry us forward, let Him hasten or delay, we will fear nothing! MARTIN LUTHER

For us, swords drawn, up to the gate of heaven:

Oh, may no coward spirit seek to leaven

The warrior code, the calling that is ours!

Forbid that we should sheathe our sword in flowers!

Captain beloved, battle wounds were Thine,

Let me not wonder if some hurt be mine.

Rather, O Lord, let my deep wonder be

That I may share a battle wound with Thee.

GOLD CORD

Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power.—As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.—Trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord , that he might be glorified.—Built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit.

I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.—Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Fight the good fight of faith.—In nothing terrified by your adversaries.