The Army

The Army gathered on the gentle slope of the hill. Clattering, clanging and shouts could be heard as they prepared for battle. The enemy, just becoming visible over the crest of the hill in the distance, was steadily advancing in a straight, organized line directly towards The Army. Like a dark wave, the enemy ranks swept over the hill and began its descent into the valley.

A low murmur could be heard among The Army, who was now frantically trying to complete their preparations.

“Do you see the enemy? There are so many of them!”

“Yes, and they are so well-organized!”

“Did anybody see my shield? I can’t find my shield!”

Never before had there been such a foe. And never before had The Army been so unprepared. In fact, The Army looked more like a band of kids playing dress-up with whatever equipment was at hand – which apparently wasn’t much.

As they began to march down the rocky, thorny hill, The Army quickly realized the essential item that had been left at home – their boots!

So, the enemy passed through the valley and advanced up the hill toward the sock-footed Army. The enemy wasn’t worried – they knew that The Army had also left behind their Swords.

Ephesians 6:10 – 17 (NIV)Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour 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 armour 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.”