Battle Shoes

Ephesians 6:10-17

Verse 15  …and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

    We have reached our third piece of armor, the footwear of God’s army.  This may be one of the most overlooked pieces of the armor but that in no way diminishes its value as one of the most important pieces.  A soldier who can’t keep his footing will not last long in an army and will be a detriment to the whole unit.

    Shoes make a big difference in our lives.  If we wear shoes which don’t fit properly or are uncomfortable our whole being can be affected.  If there is something in our shoes we can gain a blister or cut.  When our gait is thrown off because of a sore foot or leg caused by ill footwear it can cause pain in other areas of our body like our back, hips, and legs.  And if we are in pain, it will likely affect our mood too.

    The military footwear of Paul’s day were not what we would think of as military grade.  They didn’t have steel-toe boots or specially designed soles unless you consider hob-nails added to the bottom for traction.  They weren’t built for comfort but rather usefulness.  They needed to be able to move quickly and safely all the while in pursuit of the enemy.

    This whole set of armor is about God, His gospel and our fighting for Him but the shoes play a special part as they ready us for all we are being called to do.  When we are getting ready to go somewhere we always put on the shoes fit for the occasion.  Whether we are putting on our church shoes, muck boots, running shoes or beach shoes we are choosing them to prepare us for our activity.

    Being prepared for what we are going to do is important no matter the situation but how much more important when it is about things of eternity.  This is more than just being ready for eternity, it is being ready to fight for the truth and righteousness of the Lord.  Sometimes it may be a readiness to answer the questions of others seeking God, and sometimes we need to prepare for the issues coming our way as we stand for the Lord in the spiritual battles of life, either way we need to be prepared with the Gospel.

Making It Personal

    Have you ever had someone ask you to explain the Gospel?  How do you prepare to answer questions like that?  How prepared are you?

Making It Personal Kids

    What does it mean to prepare?  How can you prepare to share the Gospel?  Are you preparing to share it?

Closing Prayer

    Father, we admit we don’t spend the time preparing like we should.  Please give us the wisdom and understanding we need to be prepared for what You already know is coming our way.  In Jesus’ name, amen.