Editorial by Editor

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Mar 16, 1905

Editorial

By Editor

_Battles and Victories_

A VICTORY implies a conflict. A genuine triumph can only follow an earnest struggle. A conqueror is one who has met the enemy and vanquished him. There can be no victories of faith unless we fight the good fight of faith. Those who wish to sing “the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb” on the sea of glass, that song of final victory, must expect as good soldiers of the cross to press the battle to the gates in the closing campaign against the enemy. At the same time we must remember that “though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds).” The instruction to be followed in order to gain the victory is very explicit, and insures a glorious outcome: “Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Wherefore take up the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand.” The strength of the Lord and the whole armor of God mean victory for him who accepts them, but the strength of the Lord and the armor of God are provided for the battles and marches of an active campaign, and not for “flowery beds of ease.” But through all these experiences there is the certainty of victory for every loyal soldier of the cross.

“At the sign of triumph Satan’s host doth flee; On, then, Christian soldiers, on to victory! Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise; Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthem raise.”