Flip Flops and Rain

 by Stephanie Gaines

 Verse for Thought:   
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
Ephesians 6:10-11.
 

I was rushing that day.  I was late for class.  I threw on the first thing I could find, slid my feet into the first pair of flip flops I saw and headed toward the door determined to be avoid any further delays.   Only to open the door and realize it was raining.   Determined to get to class as soon as possible, I only spent a brief second thinking about my feet getting wet in the rain.  I was on a mission and did not want to waste time putting on the proper footwear. 

Now, granted, in hindsight, I can see the wisdom in going back to change shoes, especially since I was already late.  However, at the time, I didn't see the problem until I rushed outside and in my haste slipped in the mud and almost fell flat on my face.  Hence, today's topic, "Flip Flops and Rain Don't Mix."

The 14th and 15th verse of today's scripture in Ephesians 6 goes on to admonish us to "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."   It's one thing to get caught out in the rain in flip flops.  But, it another story if you know that it's raining and muddy out and to still go out with your feet unprotected.   That does not show readiness.

How many days do we get up and "go out into the world" without the protective armour of God?  We know what we need to do.  But, we allow the cares of life to keep us from taking care of ourselves.  If we are not at our best, we can not give others our best.  Is that where you find yourself today?  If so, it's not too late.  Just like I ended up having to go back and change my shoes that day, you too can change your path today.  You can choose the right shoes for the right path that God has for you.

Let's Pray:
Dear God,
Show me how to use wisdom in preparing to walk the path you have chosen for me.  Help me to understand that when I go out unprepared, the harm that I can do to myself is often greater than the inconvenience of taking the time to do it right.  Thank you for always being there to pick me up when I fall.   Amen.

Take the Next Step:
Spend some time reading the entire chapter of Ephesians 6.   Be a good steward of everything that God has blessed you with, your natural body and your mind and spirit.  Take care of it, keep it protected and keep it strong.