Are you armed??

Our nieces and nephews celebrate 3 birthdays in the summer, and we missed them during our move, so we spent an evening celebrating them at an "Unbirthday" party! Uncle Aaron made each of them their own special armor...

...the kids loved their swords and shields.

When they picked up their armor they were bold- look at their expressions!  They fiercely wielded their swords and fought off sibling attackers with their shields!
 
It was a good reminder for us that we can be just as bold as the kids were when we put on the Armor of God.  No fear, No anxiety, No worries.  I admit that I don't achieve this on most days- but when I am in His word daily, quiet before God, listening for Him to speak, praising His Holy name, submitting my requests to Him, keeping a repentant heart, walking by His strength...   I too feel bold, fierce, and ready to accept His call on my life.  Please pray with us that we continue to grow and that God will further develop this boldness! 
As we 'press-in' and increase our training and preparation, we feel the spiritual battle that is taking place.  We are fully engaged.  These lessons are challenging, but we are thankful to be in the comfort of our familiar culture with loved ones around us.  Support is huge as we learn, 'cuz the learning process is not comfortable!


Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day... Ephesians 6:10-13