Get Ready, Get Set, Go!

Ephesians 6:13 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.

I was recently speaking with a couple who had been on an Alaskan cruise. Due to the time of the year that they went, the weather was still quite cold requiring them to dress in several layers. Now, some individuals may feel that this type of preparation would not be worth the effort. However, as I listened to my friends describe the inexplicable beauty of the Alaskan landscape, I knew that I would do the same if ever given the opportunity to visit this exquisite place.

I have entitled today's message "Get Ready, Get Set, Go!" because I believe that this is what Christians must do to prepare themselves for the trials that they WILL face in life. As my friend and her husband dressed appropriately for the cold Alaskan weather conditions, we are directed in today's verse to put on God's full armor - truth, righteousness, the Gospel, faith, salvation, the spirit, and prayer - in order to stand our ground WHEN the day of evil comes.

God does not sugarcoat things in Ephesians 6. He warns us that there is an enemy poised for attack. 1 Peter 5:8 confirms this truth in the following way - "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." Sadly, we are ALL susceptible to the ploys of the devil.

My challenge to you today is to always realize that your loving Father is offering to you the necessary tools to live a life of VICTORY ---- not one of defeat ---- when you encounter the bumps and potholes along your journey of life. James 4:7 states "Resist the devil and he will flee from you." Hold fast to the knowledge that our God is BIGGER than any enemy AND with His protection and armor WE are also BIGGER than any adversary!!! With God on our side, we just have to "Get Ready, Get Set, and Go" forward with all He has called us to do.

Dear LORD, I thank you for providing Your armor for me to be equipped to handle all of what I will face in life. I understand that this armor must be worn at all times because the enemy is always lurking around. I am grateful to the protection that I am afforded by You to emerge victorious no matter the circumstances I face.

I also thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.