Stand Your Ground

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God…

Ephesians 6:10, 11a

It’s a common experience, a familiar scene. A busy morning on the verge of chaos as a family prepares for a day of work or school. In the midst of dashing out the door and climbing into the car, it is discovered that someone forgot something. Our fast-forward lives come to a screeching halt with a muttered, what did we forget this time? And as we scramble back into the house for books, a lunch box, keys or sunglasses, we too often miss what is leaning right by the front door: our suit of armor.

Paul writes in Ephesians 6:14-17, “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 which is the word of God.”

As Christian women desiring a Spirit-filled life, we cannot underestimate the necessity of being spiritually prepared and battle ready.
Yes, it’s hard.
Yes, it’s inconvenient.
But what is more difficult? Making time for personal study and quiet time, or facing daily challenges and worldly battles without the full armor of our Lord?

We’ve seen it played out many times in our own lives. We’re too tired. We need that extra 15 minutes of sleep. What is the first thing to be sacrificed on the altar of self? Time with our Lord. (Do we dare call Him Lord at this point, for surely this is evidence of lack of Lordship in our lives!)

Verse 11 of chapter six speaks to why this readiness is so vitally important: “…so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

The line has been drawn.
The enemy is ready and waiting.
Are we?

Oh Father, thank you for providing me with exactly what I need to face each new day.
Help me to remember that You are my readiness, You are my strength.
I love you, dear Lord!