I’m in the Lord’s Army
   Dr. James Lee West
   
   I was never in Uncle Sam’s army.  I came pretty close back in 1966.  Those were the Vietnam War years, and two different times I was called up by the draft board for a physical.  I passed both times but never was drafted into the war.  With the various wars and conflicts that the US armed forces are in currently, it has caused me to think about the Lord’s Army.  How do you get into the Lord’s Army?  
 
One of the most frequently discussed topics among serious, Christian young people is ,“How do I know that God wants me to be a missionary?”    To me the answer is obvious, as it is in Uncle Sam’s army.  If you have been born again and claim Jesus as your Savior and Lord, then you are in the Lord’s Army.  You just have to find where your place should be.  

Some are drafted like St. Paul and me.  I was merrily going on my own way, but God drafted me.  Though not struck down on the road and blinded, I certainly had my whole life disrupted and redirected to full-time Christian service.  And I should add that this destiny that God had for me has truly been wonderful and marvelous.  I stand amazed at how God uses me and has used me.
 
Some enlist like Isaiah. “Here I am Lord.  Can you use me?  Is there a place for me?”  Some look around and see the incredible lack of obedience in the Church and say, “I’m going to do something,” and they do it—they volunteer.  

Then there is a host of others who never march, but are in the supportive arena of funds and prayers.  They are essential, too, for the success of the battle against sin and the devil.  


There is a place for you in the Lord’s Army.  You must find it and do it, otherwise, you are outside still trying to find where you belong . . . where you can make a difference.
 
When I was a young pastor involved in Vacation Bible Schools, children’s camps, etc., we sang a little song, “I may never march in the infantry, ride in the cavalry, shoot the artillery.  I may never fly o’er the enemy, but I’m in the Lord’s Army.”  And we had it down with dramatic motions that always stirred us to enthusiasm for the Lord.  You might know it and have sung it until you thought your lungs would break.  Maybe we need some rousing choruses of “I’m in the Lord’s Army.  I’m in the Lord’s Army.”  

In these days of extreme patriotism and passion to give political freedom, I am praying for passion to give liberty for the captives and the deliverance of those enslaved in sin and false religions.  God may draft you, and that still happens.  Don’t wait for the draft.  I think He is looking for those who would volunteer.  The call to the Great Commission has already gone out.  The need is great, but how shall they believe without a preacher?  Are you in the Lord’s Army?  Now is the time to show your true allegiance.