Ephesians 6:15 “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”
The third piece to the armor of God is the preparation of the gospel of peace. The gospel of peace is to be put on our feet like shoes. But why? And what exactly does the verse mean by “preparation of the gospel of peace”?
With the gospel on our feet, it will go wherever we go. Whether we go to church, the store, or a gathering of friends and family, we should have the gospel with us. With it on our feet, it will guide our footsteps and keep us from going where we shouldn’t. The trail we leave behind will point to God, and not ourselves. God is telling us to keep the truth of His Son’s sacrifice close, and to be ready to share it no matter where we are.
The word “preparation” has several meanings, but the one that stood out to me is the following:
The state of being prepared or in readiness. Preparation is intended to prevent evil or secure good.
God wants us to not just be ready to use the gospel, but also know how to use it. Properly prepared, we will be ready for whatever circumstance God puts us in. No matter who we talk to, what their personality is, and what they believe, we need to know how to properly give them the truth of salvation. What good will the truth be if we don’t know how to share it?
As a loaded gun is dangerous in the hands of someone who’s never touched one before, so is the truth in the hands of someone who doesn’t know how to use it. We may have good intentions in sharing the gospel, but if we aren’t sure and knowledgeable about it ourselves, it will be so easy to be mocked and humiliated, and we will have accomplished nothing. Don’t just believe the gospel, but know it. And memorize the Scripture so you can quote it perfectly. Be ready, so when the mockers come, you can confidently respond with the truth of the Scripture.
Finally, the verse mentions the “the gospel of peace”. This world is full of uncertainty, and because of this, many people do not have true peace. They worry about the future and what it might hold. Will they be able to pay the bills? Will the surgery go well? What happens after death? But when someone knows and believes the truth of the gospel, it gives them peace. For now they know that beyond the uncertainties of this life, there is the certainty of eternity.
God is telling us as Christians to wear this gospel of peace and show it to the world. Let people see the peace you have through these very unpeaceful times. Keep the gospel close to you wherever you go and know how to use it, so when God present you with an opportunity to share it, you will be ready.
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