No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.

2 Timothy 2:4

Sometimes our lives and our hearts get entangled with all the wrong things and the wrong people. Once we get wrapped up with them, and they become part of our story, it’s hard to live the life God created us to live. Normal day to day activities and relationships aren’t bad things. But when they consume our attention and get in the way of following Jesus and obeying His commands, they have too strong a hold on our hearts, and we become entangled. We soldiers are to keep our eyes on Jesus, our Commanding Officer, to fulfill our duties, and to please Him, not people. (Galatians 1:10) 

Jesus wants our lives woven tightly with His. He wants us to live free of entanglements that distract and threaten to unravel us from His eternal purposes. So it is crucial that we break free from all the wrong things, and run toward the right One. Following Jesus means sacrificing all the distractions that lure us away, and living our lives focused on Him instead. The closer we are to Him, the more we trust Him, and the more He can protect us, guide us, and teach us. 

The effectiveness of any soldier depends on obedience, loyalty, and commitment, not simply the quality of the leader. A good soldier of Jesus doesn’t let anything or anyone distract him or her from the purpose for which they were called: to love and care for others, to speak truth, to make disciples, and to influence heaven. The enemy knows exactly who and what will misdirect your heart, so identity and resist them. Take a good look at what entangles you, cut yourself free, and leave them behind. Then pick up your battle gear, keep your eyes on your Commanding Officer, and bravely march on! You are loved! 

"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” ~Jim Elliot