“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” (Ephesians 6:12-18 King James Version)
In response to yesterday’s meditation, “Dealing With Those Stubborn Knots,” one reader responded by saying, “I’ll just wear sandals.” I laughed, interpreting the response to be humor intended. For surely, if one would looked at the times that Paul was writing, literally as a soldier in the army, you would find that one’s sandals still had to be laced up properly to forge ahead into battle or as they marched on rugged terrain. Furthermore, their sandals were sometimes made of iron, and sometimes of brass. That does not sound comfortable at all. And listen! In our times, sandals can cause a variety of foot problems! Check it out for yourself if you don’t believe me.
In this “response to a response” let me recommend that you DYO (Do Your Own) research on what the Apostle Paul wrote about in the verses above pertaining to “your feet being shod.” Here is a deserved shoutout that should encourage you. I have a cousin who is diligent when looking at the meditations daily, and instead of just reading them, he will research what I have written from both a Biblical perspective and from a figurative perspective. I admire his effort! You go cuz!
Now, for the rest of you, be like my cousin and get into the word. Don’t just depend on your intellectual knowledge, even if you are an experienced, veteran podiatrist. Don’t just read the comments below the line in your Study Bible. Don’t just read what one trusted commentary has to say about it. Don’t refer to a link of personal comments, responding to a posed online question. Do the work! Do the research and you will benefit greatly from what you find. That’s a promise.
Somebody is saying, “You are giving me homework?” My answer is “Yes!” Do exactly what the Scripture below admonishes you to do. Have a safe Friday as we get closer to the celebration of the first advent of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Be blessed!
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 New International Version)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King