[A]nd you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. Revelation 2: 3.
Dear Father, in the name of Your Son and our Savior, Jesus the Christ, we bow in Your Presence. we need a word from You. So please speak that we might be encouraged to stay in the race. And in Your name we receive the assurance that what we have asked has been granted. Amen.
Today we will look at the preparation of the Gospel of Peace that we have been advised to wear as shoes. In the context of our study on perseverance this item is of great importance. We all know that in a marathon footwear is very important. For us to walk or run for long distances our footwear must fit well. They must be comfortable. They are our most valuable piece of clothing in ensuring that we will make it to the finish line.
It is interesting that the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace should be compared to shoes. You would expect it to be compared to a more “important” piece of amour, for example, the helmet. Nevertheless, for a few minutes let me submit for your consideration some reasons why I believe this is so.
The Gospel of Peace is the Good News of Salvation.
I believe that there is nothing more encouraging than to know that Jesus saves! This is essentially the Gospel of Peace. As we run the race of life and face the unknown on life’s journey, one of the most enabling aspect of this garment are the Promises that are found in the Word of God! What is so amazing about it is that it does not constitute a weight. And we do know that in running a race weights are not desirable. We are advised to lay them aside; to cast them off.
Therefore, the most wonderful thing about the promises is that they become a part of our experience. They are written upon our hearts! We live them. They are internalized. I have seen people take hope and receive courage to continue in the race in the midst of their pain when they hear that for “every trial [God] will see them through.” I have been strengthened by the knowledge that God is faithful, and will not give me more than I can bear. This has helped me to persevere.
The other side of the coin are the benefits of sharing the Gospel of Peace. As we travel from place to place sharing with others what God has done for us as well as the Gift of Salvation that is offered to the entire world (John 3: 16), our faith is strengthened and we press on, we stay in the race. We persevere.
Make sure that your feet are covered with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. In His strength and by His grace, you and I will make it to the Finish Line!