Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Ephesians 6:11 NKJV
Iva and I have walked the same route in my neighborhood almost daily for three years. This walk would be our last, unless accompanied by my husband.
Out of nowhere, a white dog with dark markings appeared at my feet. At first, I thought he wanted to play, but Iva ignored him. Suddenly, he was on top of Iva growling and biting her neck. All I could do was scream. As quickly as he appeared, he vanished. I felt his saliva on Iva, but thankfully there were no wounds.
I hated myself for not doing more. I forgot I was carrying a knife. I should have done something.
Just two weeks earlier, I had discussed a previous dog attack with my rep from Guiding Eyes. He advised me to avoid the area because of the detrimental effects’ attacks have on guide dogs.
These dogs are trained to be mild-mannered so they can be in public. Guide dogs who are attacked will eventually either become aggressive, or they’ll retire by refusing to adequately guide. In either case, the handler is forced to get another guide dog.
Wisdom told me our walks were finished. I could no longer expose Iva to the possibility of attack. We would take the bus, go downtown, or go to Walmart to get our exercise.
While I want the public to be aware of the grave consequences of lose dogs, I also want to encourage dog owners to abide by leash laws.
Christians are also under attack by an enemy that cleverly sneaks in and pounces upon us. He disguises himself as a minister of light (2 Cor. 11:14). He will steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).
However, the church cannot retreat or take up another route. We must put on the armor of God.
Ephesians chapter six describes this armor. The belt of truth holds everything together (Eph. 6:14). This is why discerning between truth and error is vital. The breastplate of righteousness protects the major organs (Eph. 6:14). When sin enters our lives, we are vulnerable to attack. Then there are the shoes, the preparation of the gospel of peace (Eph. 6:15). The Roman soldier wore shoes with spikes so they couldn’t be moved easily. They were planted on a firm foundation.
Once we are suited up, we take up the shield of faith (Eph. 6:16). Faith shields us from the fiery darts of doubt, disappointment, and discouragement. The helmet of salvation guards our minds, the center of all demonic attack (Eph. 6:17). We carry the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (Eph. 6:17). When the devil tempted Jesus in the wilderness, Jesus used Scripture (Matt. 4:3-11).
Finally, we pray. We dress through prayer. We defend ourselves through prayer, and we fight down on our knees.
I pray you’ll be prepared for any attack that comes your way. A soldier in God’s army.
Originally posted on September 14, 2020 @ 5:11 pm