Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: FEET (01/17/19)
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TITLE: When the shoe fits | Previous Challenge Entry
By Barbara Culler
01/24/19 -
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The picture showed a close-up view of puckered, pasty colored skin that appeared as though they had spent hours in wet shoes. The damaged skin was tearing off near the toes, and small bandages placed near the top lifted slightly to reveal blistered skin. The photograph was captioned as belonging to a soldier.
That image stayed with me and I wondered what caused them to suffer such damage. I was unable to relocate the photo for further study, but in researching online, I learned of reasons for the development of such injuries. Skin tearing and blisters are often caused from improper or misfitting shoes. Ulceration may arise from too thin socks that do not wick away moisture, or they bunch up, creating friction between skin and shoe. Frequently, lack of proper training steps that prepare the soldier for grueling marches culminate in skin breakdown.
Basically, soldiers must build up endurance in their training, and maintain a constant regimen of good foot hygiene, so that they are well-prepared for the job. I marveled at how soldiers must continue their work despite the ongoing pain. I’ve long suffered painful feet, and it seems impossible to find shoes that are both comfortable and supportive enough to walk around the block.
During my research I observed several photographic variations of battle-worn feet, and my lower extremities throbbed in sympathy. The idea of soldiers requiring such proactive attention to their bodies brought to mind how in our Christian life, we suffer when we are ill equipped for life’s pounding attacks. As part of our spiritual battle gear, the Bible admonishes us to put on the armor of God in order to prepare for warfare against the devil’s schemes.
“Stand firm, then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” Ephesians 6:14-15 (NIV)
In the sport of gymnastics, a goal of the athlete is to stick their final landing, and not bounce further after their feet hit the ground. Likewise, Christians are told to stand firm, and to anchor their feet with God’s peace. Unlike those long stick figure balloons bending wildly to internal pressures, we are to stick firmly grounded in God’s supernatural power.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
I am much more comfortable and pain free when in my recliner, but cannot stay all day, for I must attend to my responsibilities. Throughout life’s trials, we endure much pain, but as the soldier with blistered feet presses on, so can we. Christians are equipped with a special armor against spiritual warfare, and part of that battle gear is the grounding footwear of the Peace of God. If only earthly shoes were that powerful.
Dear Father God, thank you for equipping us with the tools to stand firm, and the power to be able to endure the battles of life. Amen.
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