Stand

One of my joys is taking photographs beside the wrestling mat; this shot is a favorite. Here, I capture my son’s determination, dedication, and readiness. In mere seconds, I see the hours and hours of practice that built the grit necessary to put oneself in this position.  In this photo, I see focus on his face; I see his hands carefully placed – no random moves here; and, I see a glance of his thoughts. My son’s thinking: Stand! Escape! Take My Stand!

In wrestling, this is the standard, down position; one’s opponent starts on top. At this point in the match, it’s no longer a question of if one’s opponent is coming, but rather when and how.  Life can be a lot like a wrestling match.

In the letter to the church in Ephesus, the Apostle Paul writes these words:

“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, and with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” Vv. 13-15, NIV

In life, either by our choice or another’s, we are placed in the down position.  We should not be surprised. Scripture tells us that the opponent is coming. However, we are not left unprepared, and we are told to stand, to stand, and to stand again!  We live through moments defined by knowing and trusting God. It is in these moments that we must fully lean into knowing that our stance and the ability to stand is not characterized by our opponent, but rather by the armor we are wearing and the one to whom it belongs. In God, we are fully equipped.

If God were taking your photograph, what expression would he see written across your face? Your heart?  What thoughts would he glimpse? Have you built the spiritual grit necessary to stand when facing opposition?

Look for the intersection of God’s Word and your life.  

Blessings,

Jo