March 7, 2011 - It's Game On!

“Alright Team, it is time to lace ‘em up!” A basketball player knows that means it is game time! A football player looks forward to the time to be “in pads” – he knows some contact is on the way. A race car driver looks forward to the words “Gentlemen, start your engines.”

Athletes love the time when they get to compete. They love the time when the adrenaline gets pumping. They love to be at that point when it’s “Game On!”

Can you imagine a basketball player running out onto the court in dress shoes to play? Can you imagine a football player saying, “I don’t need any pads”? Can you imagine a race car driver jumping in his car still in regular clothes, ignoring his helmet, ignoring his safety harness, etc.?

Simply put, when it “Game On!” athletes should be prepared mentally and physically. They should be “dressed out” and ready to go!

Guess what? It is “Game On!” for us as believers. Or better put, it is “Battle On!” I have been preaching through the letter to the Ephesians the last few Sundays and yesterday I dealt with the armor of God.

Ephesians 6: 13 begins with the word “therefore.” It is saying that since the truth is that we are in a battle that is spiritual in nature, we should make sure that we are clothed properly. Verses 14-17 explain the importance of God’s truth and righteousness; the importance of our faith in the promises of God; the importance of God’s protection in our lives; and the importance of our “game plan” of spreading the Gospel of peace.

My question this week is very simple: Did you “dress out” today for “the game”? Or are you reading this sitting on the “sidelines” in your “street clothes”?

Daily we need to be searching the Scriptures for God’s truth and instruction in righteousness! Daily we need reminded of His glorious promises; that we can trust Him!

Verse 18 then reminds us of the importance to pray – for yourself and for each other. Daily we should pray on His armor and be prepared for battle.

Ephesians 6:13-18Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. (The Message)

It’s Game On!