31 Days of Victory: {Day 11}Shoes of Readiness

“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”- Ephesians 6:14-15

A friend and I were chatting the other day about our upcoming trip to Africa. The clock is ticking and we’re preparing for our final details of the mission. We joked a bunch about the fear of flying {you know, the kind of joking that makes light of something you’re actually serious about in the core of who you are}. She shared a story in which she once thought her plane was going down because she heard an odd noise and she immediately started negotiating with God. Of course, the flight was fine and she made me laugh till I cried as she light-heartedly reenacted the whole scene. At the end of it all, we both agreed on the beauty of being ready for the unexpected.

On day 1 I shared that part of my testimony includes deliverance from paralyzing fear. I have to tell you, I still struggle a bit with fear of flying but I’ve adopted a new mindset about it all. Before I get on a plane I ask myself, “what’s the worse that could happen?” Of course the answer is always that I could die. But each time I come to that conclusion, a peace comes over me and I think to myself, “That’s not so bad.” Then I Do a quick heart-check, to make sure I'm clothed with readiness, and I set my focus on the gospel of peace, which gives me hope.

God’s Word promises that, for the believer, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord [2 Corinthians 5:7-10]. To live is Christ and to die is gain [Philippians 1:21]. The idea of dying could easily scare the living day lights out of anyone on any given day. But when you are connected to the vine [Jesus] and you are sealed with the Holy Spirit, which is a deposit guaranteeing your inheritance in heaven, the thought of death isn’t so scary. Actually, it’s quite hopeful.

Having your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace doesn’t just apply to life after death. I believe it applies to our everyday journey of faith; being ready to obediently respond to whatever God calls us to, including sharing His message of hope.

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “ Your God reigns!”- Isaiah 52:7

“Some historians credit footwear as one of the greatest reasons why the Roman Army was so victorious over its enemies. The Roman Soldier was equipped with footwear that had spikes on the soles which provided them a strong enough stance and balance that gave them a superior posture in battle on hills and uneven terrain.” – Excerpt from The Christian Arsenal

According to a number of biblical commentaries, the shoes of readiness are meant to keep us firmly planted on the foundation of the gospel. The shoes also had brass greaves attached to them which protected the soldier’s legs. This is such a vital part of our armor because if a soldiers feet or legs are wounded, he can no longer stand for battle, pursue his enemy, or flee if need be. Fitting our feet with the gospel is vital to run this race and ensure readiness for the march as a Christian soldier.

"The Lord makes firm the steps of those who delight in Him."- Psalm 37:23

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."- Hebrews 6:19 

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:14-16

"Therefore my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor is not in vain."-1 Corinthians 15:58 

"Stand firm and you will win in life."- Luke 21:19

"For death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart."- Ecclesiastes 7:2

Are you prepared to share your hope?

Are you standing firm on the gospel of peace?

Are you ready for the unexpected?

If not, let’s get you some shoes! If you’re interested in learning more about the gospel, becoming a Christian, or if you simply need prayer for your current battle, please email me by clicking here [ladies]. Or email my husband, Pastor Curtis, by clicking here [men].

Victoriously,

Monique Zackery

To catch up on the last 10 days of victory, click here.

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