Cleats and Shoulder Pads

 "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:11

    My great-nephew, Mason, is happy to be on his school's football team. Now that practice has begun anew, he must no longer dress as he had all summer long - in shorts, T-shirt and crocs. If he tried to perform on the field in these togs, though his love for the game was undiminished and even if he followed the plays exactly, he'd fail at the sport. He'd likely be tackled, bruised and shoeless in the first few minutes of the game.

    As I imagined him running the ball in crocs, I pondered the parallel with the Christian's armor of God. This struggle we are in is not a game; we're engaged in daily battle. Look at Ephesians 6:12 at all the things we are up against:  

• against the rulers
• against the authorities
• against the powers of this dark world
• against the spiritual forces of evil

    How are we to stand up against those who rule, those who have positions of authority? What fighting chance have we against penetrating darkness and such forces of evil which we cannot see?

    The answer lies in how we're outfitted, and the preparations which take place in the locker room before we run out onto the field. Every piece of equipment we have is provided by Christ Himself. As Paul said in his letter to the Ephesians: "Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." (6:10, emphasis added) Gird yourself with the belt of truth (John 14:6). Don the shoulder pads of righteousness (Philippians 3:9). Our cleats are the gospel shoes of peace (Philippians 4:7). Blocking our opponent requires the shield of faith (1 John 5:4). To protect our minds, we must strap on the helmet of salvation (John 10:28).

    Knowing the playbook, we gain yardage. If we are not well-versed in the Bible, which is the sword of the Spirit, we will flounder on the field. Pray! Communicate with your Coach at all times. He is able to send teammates to your aide or bench you for a bit if you're feeling battered. 

    

    Lastly, remain alert. The battle rages until we exit the arena, when Jesus takes us home. Our team wins!