I completed the dreaded task a couple of weeks ago. You
know, making the BIG switch. Swapping the winter clothes out of my closet, for those that make the summer heat
more bearable. It's quite a job and I put it off as long as possible.
Reality set in the next day when I realized a few things
from my summer wardrobe were a little on the tight side. Something had happened
since the last time I'd worn these clothes...you guessed it, I'd added a couple
of pounds. Nothing too serious, but serious enough to cause some discomfort.
Time to get a bit more disciplined about my eating and exercise.
As I increased the time and intensity of my workout this
morning, I thought about clothing. Although I may not be able to wear some of
the clothes in my closet, the wardrobe that God provides for me, will always
fit. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel shoes, and
the helmet of salvation - each article of spiritual clothing, designed by the
master Tailor in just the right size.
How relieving to know that I can never outgrow God's truth.
The 'belt' He provides is up to any challenge I might encounter. Battling the
lie that you just can't handle life's stress anymore? The belt of truth overcomes
this falsehood: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for
my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather
glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me" (2
Cor. 12:9; KJV). Feeling challenged to forgive
someone? Look to the truth: "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one
another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so
also do ye" (Col. 3:13). Whatever stage in life; youth, teen, adult, the
belt of truth that God provides for me will always fit. I need only to put it
on! The truth of His Word is guaranteed to make me free (John 8:32).
The breastplate of righteousness is neither too tight nor
too loose. When I live in a way that's consistent with my Father's instruction
manual, the Bible, this breastplate is extremely comfortable. Putting God
first, treating others with kindness and respect, helping those in need, and
following His will for my life keep me living right, and put me in the position
to be blessed by my loving, Heavenly Father. The book of Matthew reminds us,
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all
these things shall be added unto you" (6:33).
I've got some shoes that pinch my toes, causing blisters.
Another pair that painfully squeeze the back of my heel . Then there are those
shoes that are so comfortable, I barely notice I've got them on. God's gospel
shoes fit like a dream, and give me the motivation to share the good news of
Jesus Christ with those He brings across my path. Satan wants me to think that
others aren't interested in hearing the plan of salvation, so he seeks to rough
up my terrain and cause my 'feet' discomfort. But the truth is, everyone needs
to hear about the Savior. And He is more powerful than our enemy: "Ye are
of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is
in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4).
I'm not much of a hat person, but I understand that a hat
can provide protection. Have you ever allowed a thought to drift through your
mind, causing you to doubt God? Without the helmet of salvation firmly in
place, those thoughts will go unchecked, playing directly into the hand of the
enemy. Beware! As much as the enemy wants us to doubt our salvation, the Lord
wants us to be assured of our salvation. "These things have I written unto
you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that
ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of
God" (1 John 5:13; emphasis added mine).
So what are you wearing? If you're in need of a wardrobe
makeover, may I recommend the master Tailor? Jesus Christ. The belt of truth,
breastplate of righteousness, gospel shoes, and helmet of salvation will look
good on you! And they're perfect all year round!
*A re-post from April 2010.
*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Come join in the discussion!
