11.15.2010

Dressed for Success

November 15, 2010

The other day, Freddie and I had a disagreement about something or other. He was frustrated with me because he had expected me to do something that I did not do. It hurt my feelings to see him disappointed in me and I let myself get very angry and I may or may not have called him an ugly name. I immediately felt ashamed and sorry that I let my emotions get the better of me. Freddie's reaction was something exactly like this: "That's real Christian of you."  Ouch! He's right. That is not how Christ would react. But, I am not Christ. I strive to be Christ-like, but I am not always successful.

Being like Christ is a very tall order. He was sinless. He was able to resist temptation 100% of the time. And he was tempted by the best of 'em. How was he able to do it? After all, he did walk this earth as a human. I think it's because he had perfect knowledge and wisdom of God. His heart was perfectly tuned in to God's desires and commands. He spent his life searching for and learning and teaching God's will. As we seek God's instruction, we will become more like Christ. We will be better armed to resist temptation. We will have a clearer understanding and bigger arsenal to defeat the wiles of the devil.

So, how exactly are we to do this? The bible gives us a clear answer. It tells us to put on the "Armor of God" every day. We are to be honest and righteous. We should be filled with God's peace which comes from knowing that Jesus died on the cross to save us from hell. We must remain faithful at all times and be confident in our salvation. We need to know the word of God by reading and studying it. And we must constantly be in prayer about all things!

So, make sure the first thing you do every day is to Dress for Success in the battle armor of God!

"A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil ruler and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News, so that you will be fully prepared. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere." Ephesians 6:10-18

1 comment:

Tammy said...

Excellent job!! :)