As children who grew up in the countryside, it wasn’t uncommon for us to go about barefoot. We took off our shoes when climbing trees, playing in the rain, participating in certain games (such as track and field), or for no other reason than the fact that it was a normal thing to do.

It was fun and exciting, but I have to admit, going around barefoot wasn’t always a bed of roses. The heat of the sun on the asphalted road wasn’t for the faint of heart. Going without shoes also meant that the probability of hurting a toe or getting wounds on the feet was much higher.

Our omniscient God wants to protect us from the pain of walking on hot asphalt and the probability of getting cuts on our toes and feet. The plan that He has for us does not include going around barefoot. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. He wants us to keep on our spiritual footwear.

And with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. (Ephesians 6:15 NIV)

Our spiritual journey requires us to be geared up and ready at all times. Being ready means that we keep our feet covered.

When the asphalt of adversity becomes intensely hot, we will be able to walk through our crucibles because our spiritual feet are not barefoot. When we have to go through challenges of various types, we need not be afraid of injuring our toes or getting cuts on our soles because we “shod our feet.”

Not going barefoot means we face our circumstances undaunted because the “gospel of peace” is ours. We take each step of faith depending on Him who gives the peace that surpasses our understanding.

Will you go barefoot, or will you shod your feet with the gospel of peace?

I pray that you’ll claim the peace that passes all understanding each and every day as you continue on your walk of faith.

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Help me to not undertake my spiritual walk with you like a naive, barefoot child. Help me to daily take seriously the advice in Ephesians 6:15 to equip myself with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Let me walk this pathway and not get faint or weary but do so with the exuberance and energy of an eager child. Thank You for being my trusted companion and guide. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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