We are discussing how we as Christians can stand firm during tough times, especially in the times we are living in today. We have to put on the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:14-17:
1 – The Belt of Truth
2 – Body Armor of God’s Righteousness
3 – Shoes for the Good News
4 – The Shield of Faith
5 – The Helmet of Salvation
6 – The Sword of the Spirit
Last month we discussed the Armor of Righteousness. This month we’ll discuss the third part of our armor which is “Shoes for the Good News”. Some translations such as the King James Version translates it as having our “feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel”. So what does it mean to have our feet shod?
The definition of the word ‘shod’ means to have ones feet firmly planted and fitted in a shoe. In ancient Rome, the Roman soldiers used to wear heavy sandals that were studded with hobnails. This would give them a more secure footing so they could stand firm in battle. And we as Christians should have our feet planted “firmly” in the Good News of the Gospel, being rooted ourselves and always be ready to have an answer for someone of the hope that is within us. The Bible says that we have this treasure in earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7). As Christian people, we are carriers of the Good News of the Gospel. We really are Gods ambassadors on the earth as the Scriptures says:
2 Corinthians 5:20 – NLT – So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”
All of us are representatives of our Lord Jesus Christ and have been given the responsibility of calling people everywhere back to God. It’s God’s heart cry for mankind to be reconciled to Himself and we are the vessels that He desires to use to fulfill this task. Yet for many believers, it’s often difficult to share their faith with unbelievers. Some have never shared their faith at all. Why is that?
It can be understood, especially since we live in a society that seems to be growing more hostile toward God. And with this new brand of “cancel culture” that has permeated our society, it makes many fearful of even mentioning the name of God or Jesus Christ, or even to take a stand for making a distinction between what is right and what is wrong. Yet, we are still called to share the Good News with those who are without. But you may say “how do I do that? It’s not my comfort zone” or “I’m hesitant and fearful” or “people will think I’m a religious fanatic.”
First of all, we are not talking about “jamming truth” down someone’s throat (as the saying goes). That never works. The Bible says this, and I like the way the Amplified Classic describes it:
Colossians 4:5 – Amplified Classic Bible – Behave yourselves wisely [living prudently and with discretion] in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the very most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity.
One thing to consider is to ensure that we are living a lifestyle around unbelievers where they can see the light of Christ in us first and foremost. This speaks volumes to many when they see a person solid in their faith. It can also be a road to opening up the doorway of dialogue where God may give you an opportunity to share the Good News with someone who’s heart God has opened. Another thing is to realize that we cannot be the Holy Spirit into people’s hearts and lives. It’s His job to convict the heart of unbelievers (John 16:8). It is our job to pray and when God does give us an opportunity to share with someone the hope that is within us, “seize the opportunity” like the Scripture says in Colossians 4:5.
Granted, everyone is not called to be an evangelist like Billy Graham, but whether we are school teachers, business owners, office workers or whatever vocation God has given us, all of us are called of God to always be ready to share the Good News of the Gospel. Not just pastors and ministers. And while each of us may have different methods of doing this, the message always remains the same. But, you may say, “what if they reject the message?” They might. There is no guarantee of what the outcome may be. But the response is not your responsibility. It’s on the hearer and up to God to work on their heart with what they have heard.
So be encouraged and remember the words of the Scripture:
2 Timothy 1:7 – NLT – For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Remember God is your constant help (Psalms 46:1) and He can help you with this and show you the proper time as to when to speak and when not to speak (Ecclesiastes 3:7).
Next, we’ll look at the Shield of Faith. God Bless!
