15 “and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” Ephesians 6:15 New International Version (NIV)
The shoes worn by the Roman soldier generally came in the “sandal” variety. They had thick leather soles that were studded with small nails to provide stability in hand-to-hand combat. The sandals came up above the ankle and were held securely by extensive leather straps.
Without the sandals, a soldier would not be prepared to fight and would be easily defeated. The apostle Paul tells us that our preparation for battle is the gospel (good news) of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.
How do the ‘shoes of the gospel of peace’ protect us? Here a couple of ways Satan attacks us: the flaming missile of doubt, such as “If God really loved you, He wouldn’t have let this happen,” we dig our peace shoes into the turf of God’s Word and reply, “It is written: All things work together for the good to them who love God and are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). And When Satan attacks us with “Remember what you did?” we dig in more deeply and reply, “It is written: If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
In addition to standing our ground, shoes are also for moving. God expects us to go on the offensive and take the gospel of peace to others. First Peter 3:15 says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Sharing our faith is one of the best ways to maintain our own sure footing. God knows that, when we are active in speaking of Him to others, we not only charge into Satan’s territory, but we dig our shoes more deeply into truth and will be much harder to dislodge. When we have “studied to show ourselves approved unto God” (2 Timothy 2:15), we are ready to stand firm in the gospel of peace no matter what the enemy brings against us (2 Thessalonians 2:15).
So put on the shoes of the gospel of peace and lace them up tight along with the rest of His armor as you get ready to go out the door today so that you can have a “great day!”
1 thought on ““The Shoes Of The Gospel Of Peace” 2-10-19”
I am greatly enjoying this series of posts on the armor of God and appreciate scrolling up and down to compare thoughts. Thank you for sharing your perspectives–what a good way to build the habit of checking in daily!
I am greatly enjoying this series of posts on the armor of God and appreciate scrolling up and down to compare thoughts. Thank you for sharing your perspectives–what a good way to build the habit of checking in daily!