After a ‘nervous’ semi-final run, Australian flag-bearer Jessica Fox only qualified for the K-1 women’s slalom finals in eighth place. I imagined the final instruction of Jessica Fox’s coach (her mother) before the final. Did the coach say, “Be strong”?
In a breathtaking performance, Jessica delivered a staggering 96.08 run to claim her first gold medal of the current Olympic Games in Paris.
In Ephesians, the apostle Paul expounds on some great doctrinal truths—essentially, the riches we have inherited through faith in Jesus Christ. In conclusion, he warns that our spiritual blessings will be tested by the “tricks of the Devil.” Therefore, we are to be strong with the Lord’s mighty power.
Paul then, perhaps drawing from Isaiah in the Old Testament, warns that we need to be armed for spiritual attacks. Imagine a warrior preparing for battle. We must depend on God’s strength and use every piece of His armour to withstand these attacks.
Just as a warrior’s armour makes him strong and prepared for battle, the spiritual armour described in Ephesians 6:14-24 equips us to be strong daily. By embracing truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and constant prayer, we are fortified against life’s challenges. True strength comes from being fully equipped with these spiritual tools.Be strong; you are competing and going for gold.
Gordon Crabb.