“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11)
FEET SHOD WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE
Roman battle shoes, otherwise known as caligae or calcei, had spikes or textured soles. Not only would the comfortable, breathable structure allow the soldiers to march several miles without pain, but these spikes would help them stand their ground and stamp on the fallen enemy.
Paul doesn’t use this historical information haphazardly. He understands the importance of peace in the life of a Christian soldier, and how much we need the shoes as well as the other elements of the armor, such as the sword or shield.
The shoes of peace give us a restful tranquility everywhere we go. It is to be bound with preparation, I am not to go forward in my kingdom purpose without having my course set and directed by godly preparation. You must be prepared in order to share the gospel of peace with others.
Peace is an attribute of the Lord’s very person and character (Galatians 5:22). In Greek, peace means oneness or wholeness. The gospel, which means good news, is the forgiveness of sins and access to and oneness with God through faith in Christ. This oneness with the Lord produces peace.
Ephesians repeatedly reminds us to “stand” and “stand firm.” One of the easiest ways for the enemy to succeed in shaking us loose from standing firm is to tempt us with worry. When we carry anxiousness and worry with us, we are robbed of peace. But the gospel of peace keeps our feet anchored and standing firm.
We are to advance onto the battlefield unafraid, because we carry with us the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection. No matter what debris the enemy throws as us, amidst the war and chaos, we know God has everything under control and that his plan cannot be thwarted by the devil.
“How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:15)
“…and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace” (Ephesians 6:15).
“How to put it on.”
1. Go into prayer.
2. Put on the belt of truth by declaring in prayer to God that you believe what he says.
3. Put on the belt of righteousness by acting, based on what God has said and declaring to God, “I want to please you in this matter.”
4. Put on the shoes of the gospel of peace when you say “God confirm this situation in my life by giving me peace or cause so much discomfort that I know I shouldn’t move forward.
5. You put on the shield of faith by acting like God is telling the truth and asking God to support you in your actions, particularly if those steps are difficult to take.
6. Put on the helmet of salvation in prayer when you ask God to clear your mind of anything that will distract you from operating with his perspective in your thinking.
7. Put on the Word of God when you quote his word and ask God to show you the right scriptures to use.
Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, today, I ask you to fit me with the shoes of the Gospel of Peace. No matter what debris the enemy hurls at me, remind me of your goodness and your magnificent plan. No matter how much the devil tries, he cannot thwart what you have planned for me, my family, and this whole world. Help me to recognize when a fellow brother or sister in Christ needs a reminder of your peace. Help my brothers and sisters to come to my aid when I have forgotten about your power and providence over this world. Jesus, you are the Prince of Peace. While we wait, please help me to be an effective soldier, and to spread your Gospel, the good news, to those who need to hear it. Amen.