BUD/S

Last week I saw several young men currently in BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEALS) running down a beach in CA. I don't know how many weeks into the 6 month course they are, but I know they work incredibly hard in an attempt to become a Navy SEAL. They train hard mentally and physically. As I watched them, I wanted to applaud them as well as cry.

Sometimes I wonder where my spiritual life would be if I approached time in the Word and prayer with an attitude of going to war against evil. It is an aspect I don't think about too often on any given day. In Ephesians 6 we read about our armor:

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to claim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

I believe 2014 will be a year of growth in Christ if I take an attitude as one training for war or an athlete training for a marathon. It is a long race not a sprint and I want to hear well done Annette when I cross the finish line.