“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.” Ephesians 6:10-18a ESV

Today’s post is part three in a series about the Armor of God. Click here to read last week’s post.

Shoes of Readiness for the Gospel of Peace

“. . . and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.”

Ephesians 6:15 ESV

Shoes – now you’re talking my language. I used to be a shoe-a-holic, and my shoe closet was a thing of beauty.

Now I choose shoes based on their comfort and how well they protect my feet. I need shoes with extra padding in the heels and structured arch support. I’ve had a problem with my left foot for a few years, and it messes with the rest of my body. I know that it’s very important to protect my feet because they affect my knees, hips, and overall posture.

Something as simple as shoes have a big impact.

Shoes of Roman soldiers: caligae

Roman soldiers also knew the importance of sturdy, supportive, and protective footwear. Their shoes wrapped around their feet and ankles, and were designed to support their feet in battle after marching for miles. The soles had metal spikes for stability and traction, as well as to trample their enemies. Craftsmen sometimes traveled with the Roman army to construct and repair sandals.

Their shoes were important.

Same Scripture, Different Translations

Sometimes I find it helpful to read scripture in different translations in order to get a better grasp of what the passage means.

Let’s look at Ephesians 6:15 in different translations:

• NIV: “and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”
• ESV: “and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.”
• TLB: “Wear shoes that are able to speed you on as you preach the Good News of peace with God.”
• AMP: “and having strapped on your feet the gospel of peace in preparation [to face the enemy with firm-footed stability and the readiness produced by the good news].”

Based on this scripture, here are three points to consider:

1. Knowledge of the Gospel steadies our walk.

    The Gospel is the Good News of salvation through Christ. Our knowledge and understanding of this Good News allows us to rely on the steadfast love of God (Psalm 25:10 ESV).

2. Jesus commanded us to share His gospel: Mark 16:14-16 ESV

    How do we share His gospel? Through the Spirit: 1 Corinthians 2:12-13 ESV

3. We need to be ready/prepared.

Just as we need to be prepared with proper footwear for running, walking, dancing, and even playing the organ, we need to be prepared to share God’s Gospel.

When we share the good news of God’s gospel, we’re fighting evil and making the devil mad (Ephesians 6:11 ESV). We must “Always be prepared to give an answer. . . ” 1 Peter 3:14-16 ESV

And . . . get ready for it. . . our readiness and preparation come from learning the truth (belt of truth) and having a protected heart (breastplate of righteousness).

God knows what we need to stay protected!

How are you preparing yourself to share God’s gospel of peace? What will you do differently to this week to be ready?

“. . . and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” Ephesians 6:15 ESV

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