Take a Trip

As the temperatures begin to dip here in the frigid winter prairies, our thoughts can begin to focus on making plans to visit a warmer climate. 

There is something refreshing about entering into that place where the sun is shining and the warmth just seems to seep into your bones.....it causes you to have a sense of wellbeing and joy. 

Today I would like to suggest that you consider taking a different kind of trip. Don't be fooled- this trip will also put you in a place where you will move from frigid temperatures and you will experience the warmth that will bring you into peace and joy.....but this trip takes place in your heart. 

I want you to consider Ephesians 6:10ff. Here God offers His children the armor that can bring spiritual peace and joy for you wherever you find yourself geographically. This is what it says:

Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 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. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 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.

There is an enemy who is bent on bringing grief and despair to people. But there is also a God, who is much more powerful than this enemy, AND who loves you and desires to help you to live in freedom! 

The armor of God is there to protect you and to transport your heart and mind to a place of peace and joy. So why not take some time right now and pray all that armor onto yourself and see what God will do for you. 

Why not take a trip, you might like it!  

BT

Pastor Brian Tysdal

Rock of Ages Church

Saskatoon, Sask.