Whose Armor Are You Wearing? - SundaySchoolNetwork.com

Whose Armor Are You Wearing? by Marsha DuCille
With so many ministries to admire, and spiritual mentors to turn to, it is common for people to emulate those who are "accomplished" and "successful." Although the accomplishments of others in ministry can serve as a testament of God’s faithfulness — like the shepherd boy, David — we must not put on someone else’s "armor"; especially when it does not fit. The Word of God teaches that we have been perfectly made for the call on our lives. That means that we do not have to "put on" someone else’s personality, mannerisms, ministerial style, or marketing plan. According to King Saul, the shepherd boy, David, was too young — and not properly equipped — to fight the nine-foot tall Goliath. As a result, Saul dressed David in his royal tunic, coat of armor, and bronze helmet. But David said to Saul, "I cannot go in these. … I am not used to them (1 Samuel 17:39)." Consequently, the Scripture goes on to state that David "took them off" (1 Samuel 17:39).
Whose armor are you wearing? Does your "Goliath" appear to be too formidable for a staff, stone, and sling? Similar to David, the Lord often prepares us in the least expected circumstances, and equips us with the most underestimated weaponry. We cannot answer the call on our lives by putting on the characteristics, or imitating the anointing, of others. We can fight — but we cannot win — using weapons that we are not "used to." The way the Lord prepares us is the same way He will use us. In 1 Samuel 17: 34-37, David said to Saul, "Your servant has been keeping his father's sheep. … Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear. …The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." Today, be reminded that the Lord has given you the armor that you will need. David did not need the sword, spear, and javelin of kings and warriors, and we do not need to borrow the style, personality, and approach of others. We are adequately equipped by the Lord — the One who prepares us. Let’s not wear anyone else’s armor. We have our own. Our cry: Lord, thank You for equipping and training me for my purpose. I will stand firm in knowing that the same way You have prepared me is the same way that You will use me. When I begin to doubt that who I am is enough for Your use, I will remember that You are the same God that used a staff, stone, and sling to kill a nine foot giant. Recommended reading 1 Samuel 17:1-58 Marsha DuCille Publisher/Editorial Director publisher@calledmagazine.com CalledMagazine.com
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