A Soldier, An Athlete, & A Farmer
Scripture writers routinely use analogies, comparisons, and illustrations to help us better understand what God wants us to do. Paul, as the primary author of the New Testament, was one of these writers. In his second letter to Timothy, the apostle chose to describe our service to God by comparing Christianity to three distinct, yet equally important roles.
First, Paul likens being a Christian to being a solider in an army. Paul writes, "You therefore must endure hardship as a good solder of Jesus Christ" (II Timothy 2:3). Being a soldier requires dedication and sacrifice. Without these two things, one cannot be a soldier in God's army wherein the objective is to teach the lost and defend the truth.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul goes to great lengths to elaborate on this military analogy. Paul urges us to "put on the whole armor of God" and then continues by referencing the various parts of a soldier's armor (Ephesians 6:11-17). Paul thought the concept of a soldier, a serious and sober profession, was appropriate to illustrate the great responsibility we have in serving God.
Second, Paul states that serving God is similar to being an athlete by writing, "if anyone competes in athletics, he he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules" (II Timothy 2:5). On so many occasions, athletes who we once admired for their "hard work" and incredible "talent" admit (often reluctantly) their use of illegal substances to enhance their abilities. Paul says that this kind of behavior is inappropriate for athletes and furthermore, for each of us. We are doing our very best to get to heaven. In this effort, additionally, we are dedicated to keeping God's law and competing according to His rules.
Finally, Paul says that being a Christian is similar to being a "hardworking farmer" (II Timothy 2:6). Perhaps one of the most difficult jobs in the world is farming. Knowing exactly when to plan, when to fertilize, whether there will be adequate rainfall, whether storms or pests will destroy too many crops, and when to harvest can all be trying. Let's face it: a non-hardworking farmer will be a non-successful farmer!
Christianity is the same. A hardworking, dedicated, and patient servant of God will be successful. Our goal as Christians is to succeed in pleasing God and in bringing others to Christ. As we consider the daily responsibilities of being faithful Christians, let us consider the farmer, as well as the soldier and athlete, in seeking to be bolder, more dedicated, and more faithful in service to our Creator.