God's Protective Gear

You've just gotten your first skateboard and you are wondering what to do with it. You've seen the skateboarders at the park and on TV, and you have seen all of the cool things they can do, but how do you get started? First, before you try anything crazy, you need to get comfortable just standing on your board. It is best to start out on the grass or some carpet so that the board will not roll until you get the hang of it. After you get comfortable just standing on the board, you are ready to try some skating. Oh wait! I think I have forgotten something. Can you guess what it is? That's right! We need to make sure we have the right protective gear.

The first thing is to make sure you have the right kind of shoes. You wouldn't go skating in a pair of cowboy boots, would you? Your shoes should have a flat bottom to help you get a better grip on the board. Next, every skateboarder should wear a helmet. You might think that wearing a helmet makes you look like a dork, but, believe me, it is the smart thing to do. Another thing you will need is pads. It is important to have pads to protect your elbows and knees. It might also be a good idea to wear braces on your wrists. Now that you have all the right gear, it is time to go skateboarding. Even professional skateboarders make sure they have the right protective equipment. Doesn't it make sense that you should use it too?

Just as we need protective gear in skateboarding, the Bible teaches us that we need protection in life. The Bible calls it the armor of God and it tells us that we need the armor of God to protect us from Satan's evil schemes. What kind of protection does the Bible say that we need?

The belt of truth - The Bible tells us that Satan is the "father of lies," but he can never win if we will hold on to the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord

The breastplate of righteousness - Satan can never harm us when we choose to do what God says is right

Feet fitted with the gospel of peace - Satan tries to create worry and confusion in our lives, but knowing Jesus brings peace

The shield of faith - Satan will try to plant seeds of doubt in our hearts and minds, but those seeds of doubt can never take root if we have faith in Jesus

The helmet of salvation - Jesus came from heaven to earth to save us from the evil one, if we accept salvation in Jesus' name, we will win the battle against Satan

The sword of the Spirit - the Bible, God's Holy Word, it is a powerful weapon against Satan.

No skateboarder should ever get on his board without the proper equipment, and you should never try to go through life without the armor of God.

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the protection we need to walk safely through our daily life. Help us to make sure we always put on the full armor you have provided. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.