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A Morning View From the Patio

When I played football I had a routine which I went through before each game we played. Part of the routine was to put on my protective equipment and uniform. I made sure I followed the same order putting it on each game and that ever piece of padding was there. The coach was always asked before the game if his players were properly dressed with their equipment.
It was important to be prepared. Proper equipment was vital to being able to play the game as safely as possible. There was always a temptation to leave a few pads out of the uniform because it was often uncomfortable and restrictive to wear. But I wore the required equipment and played the game with all my heart.
Ephesians 6 reminds us to always be wearing the full armor of God. We are to be ready for action at all times. We are to be properly equipped so that we can participate in the battle as best prepared as we possibly can. Sometime our armor may seem bulky and restrictive, but when we are fully prepared we are at our absolute best for the Lord. We must stand up against the evil forces of the spiritual enemies we face each and everyday.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”  - Ephesians 6:10-17
May we put on God's Armor!
Peace,
PB

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