Running the Race—Part 10: Equipped

People who are serious about running are usually serious about what they wear. For instance, running shirts may have special ventilation and materials designed to “wick sweat away and help keep you dry and comfortable,” according to the Nike website. Many will wear tight fitting clothes to reduce wind resistance. Their shoes have to be ultra light with good support and traction. A person who wants to win a big race will do what ever they can to give themselves a competitive edge.

As we run the race of life, we also need the right “clothing.” Now, I’m not talking about fashion or even comfort … I’m talking about function. And, no, I’m not talking about your favorite shirt or that pair of jeans. What I am talking about is the armor of God, with which every Christian needs to be equipped at all times:

Ephesians 6:13-17 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God...

Just as we put on our clothes every morning, we also need to put on the armor of God every day. Each piece serves a function vital for keeping us spiritually alive. Satan is always on the attack, surrounding us with temptations. So, today, I encourage you to run the race equipped with the armor of God, so you are able to “stand firm,” advance the cause of Christ, and press on toward the prize!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker