Keep Your Weapon Close

By Scott K. Miller

April 6, 2026

Psalm 119:31 I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame.

Tim Schwanke defended America on two occasions in Iraq. When Tim had completed boot camp, his dad asked him what lesson had impressed him most. Tim immediately responded: “Keep your weapon close.” Meaning, of course, that at any moment and from any place an enemy could strike. There is no excuse for a soldier to be apart from his weapon. A soldier that is casual with his weapon is likely to become a casualty.

Paul reminds believers that we are at war (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, it is important to have the Sword of the Spirit ready as we are engaged in battle against unseen forces—the principalities and powers of darkness; spiritual wickedness in high places.  Surrounded by the rulers of darkness bent on our spiritual destruction we need to keep our weapon close.

Our Lord Jesus, the living Word of God, demonstrated the importance of keeping one’s sword close. Being tempted by the Devil—who twisted the Scriptures—our Lord met his assault with “It is written” (Matt.4: 4, 7). He had His Sword close—one that “… is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…” (Heb. 4:12).

Most believers have confidence that the Bible is the Word of God; however, they lack competence in using it. Therefore, when common temptations assault, they easily fall. Keep your weapon close.  Read, study, meditate, and most importantly, memorize the Word daily.

During the Iraqi war, an American serviceman’s heart was the target of an Iraqi sniper; yet the bullet missed this vital organ.  The man had left the USA with the promise to his mother that he would always go into battle with his Bible. The Bible over his heart was just enough to protect his physical life.

Your spiritual protection is vital—keep your weapon close! Don’t become a casualty.

Reflection—Memorizing Scripture is never a waste of time.