Armored for Any Weather

We begin February with devotionals based on our prayer list. For the next week our focus will be on  Dressed In the Whole Armor of God for Spiritual Warfare  from Ephesians 6:10-18. As Pastor Cockrell adamantly reminded us last month, Saints, meditate on this Word!

Most people check the weather daily to determine what they are going to wear when going out. As a practice, people across the globe decide their outerwear based on a forecast that could change at a moment’s notice because despite all of the tools and technology no one can predict what the Lord will do. Nonetheless, almost daily, most people, including myself check the weather. Conversely, the spiritual weather tends to only be checked when a storm is brewing or in full blast. It seems that once spiritual storm clouds start to form people begin checking the weather. Once spiritual storm clouds form people begin dialing up the Spiritual Weather Service looking for a prediction. The prayer line is now open and people who have been drenched are now dialing up prayers for answers. What do I wear, Lord? How long will this storm last, Lord?

At this time, it is urgent to know what to wear to endure this storm. However, the forecast for the believer does not change. The Spiritual Weather Service has put out an emergency warning that does not end until Christ returns. It would tell you that although you may have a break in the weather, the storm is ever-present. The general message would simply say, "Be sober; be vigilant, because this storm is like a powerful and roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." (1 Peter 5:8 ). This storm is ever-present and you must be prepared daily for downpours. Please remember, to come out fully dressed prepared for torrential downpours by putting on the whole armor of God. Please understand that this storm is not manmade but garnered by principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness and hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. This may or may not be a fast-moving event and you will need the proper gear to be able to stand amidst the duration of the storm. Therefore, do not forget to secure your waist with truth (truth keeps you stable), protect your heart with righteousness (from out of the heart the mouth speaks-Matthew 12:34 ); remember to insert your orthotics of peace in your shoes so your walk will be godly.

Whatever you do, do not forget your faithful coat, it shields you from the fiery darts of the elements. Grab your hat; a hood alone will not protect your mind. Lastly, and most important, remember your utility knife, God’s Word, which aides you in getting out of all storms. For the believer, this forecast and outfit never changes. Therefore, put on the whole armor of God so you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
 
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for providing us with the protection to withstand any storm. Just as we check the earthly weather daily, we should also check in with You, daily. Lord, forgive us for neglecting You when the skies are bright and clear and only checking with You when the day becomes gloomy. Bring to our remembrance, Lord, that a daily walk with you prepares us perfectly for life’s storms and sunny days. Remind us Lord, that when we get dressed for the day, we must remember to put on our armor so no matter what the day brings we can represent You well. Thank You, for Your protection on the days we come out underdressed. Thank You Lord for Your provision, protection, and faithfulness towards us. Thank You for Your Son, Jesus the Christ, who died for our sins and rose so that we may live. In the matchless name of Jesus, Amen.
By Sis. Patricia Towns