Leonidas, King of Sparta, was preparing to make a stand with his Greek troops against the Persian army in 480 B.C. when a Persian envoy arrived. The man urged on Leonidas the futility of trying to resist the advance of the huge Persian army. "Our archers are so numerous," said the envoy, "that the flight of their arrows darkens the sun." "So much the better," replied Leonidas, "for we shall fight them in the shade." Leonidas made his stand, and died with his 300 troops.
The Spartan soldiers set an incredible example of courage and sacrifice in the face of battle. They stood against the Persians and held their ground until they died. Jesus wants to see the same kind of courage and strength in our spiritual life.