A Man in Uniform
There is just something about a man in uniform. It can be a
military man, a firefighter or even the UPS delivery man. It can even be a
little boy in a Cub Scout uniform. It doesn't really matter what the
uniform, but it gives them a distinguished look of authority and a sense of
purpose.
As Christians we too are given uniforms to wear, but sometimes we fail to put it on and therefore we won't be successful, secure or respected. It's our armor and it prepares us for battle each day.
There are 6 parts to our uniform and each of them have an important purpose:
- The belt of truth goes around the center of our body; it keeps us balanced, holds everything in place and allows us to find our way clearly since when we know the truth we will be making better decisions and won't waiver when tested.
- The breastplate of righteousness protects the most important organ-our heart. The heart needs to be protected by God's righteousness and purity, so that it can't be penetrated by the things that might be harmful such as sin, bad attitudes, and wrong choices.
- The shoes of peace allow us to be ready to go where God wants us to go and share the message of His good news to other people in our homes, our neighborhoods or across the world.
- The shield of faith is of utmost importance because without faith, there can be no uniform or armor. Faith is the foundation, the piece of equipment that we can hold up and use in times of attack. Our faith allows us to trust God and what He has said. We can always see what is coming at us, but we can hold up the shield and God can take care of the battle in front of us.
- The helmet of salvation covers our head...our thinking...our mind. Our thoughts could possibly get us into trouble if it is not protected with the realization that God has saved us. When we have our salvation in the forefront of our minds, it provides hope and purpose each day.
- And finally the sword of the Spirit must be picked up to be used before we face the world and our enemies. We don't have to use ugly, vindictive methods of attack, but instead we just need to know our Bible and be able to use it to confront others. That means that we should be reading, memorizing and meditating on it so that we are ready when attacked or tempted.
Even though it is not an official piece of our uniform, every piece of the
clothing must be covered over in prayer, which should be offered up for all
types of things, including yourself and other Christians so that we will be
able to stand firm in this world for the God we love and serve.
So I guess, just like I said in the beginning I love to see people in uniforms, especially if they are the ones issued by God to His army. Are you fully dressed in your uniform?
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.
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