Luggage Check-in

Upon arriving at the airport to return home from a recent trip, I stopped to check in my luggage for the flight. I was quickly informed that my suitcase was 5 pounds over the weight limit and that it would cost an additional 100.00 dollars. As I assisted my chin back to its proper position, I immediately opened my suitcase to see how I could lighten the load by removing the extra five pounds my luggage seemed to have gained on the trip. As I was rummaging through the contents of my luggage, I realized that I had no carry on bag to put anything in. So I grabbed my Bible and journal, then zipped the suitcase back up for it to be reweighed. Would you believe that was just enough to pass the weight requirement for check in?

This got me to thinking as I was waiting at the gate to board the plane. I always knew that my "armor of God" was heavy, since I equipped myself with it every day. But what an eye opener to realize that by carrying the sword of the Spirit through the airport, I had actually lightened my load. There it was in a clear, plastic bag I had been given for all to see. I actually felt at ease with it at my side. All of the anxiousness I had felt earlier about my luggage, being in a bustling international airport, and the impending flight suddenly subsided. I remained calm throughout the remainder of the waiting process and actual flight. This is no doubt because I was carrying a crucial piece of the armor of God; The Bible, the very word of God.

Once seated on the plane, I began to look around at all of the people and wondered whether or not they wore the armor of God. Had they checked their luggage? Had they carried the sword of the Spirit with them?

I certainly hope you are armored up and ready to face your day's challenges. Let the sword of the Spirit (God's word) be you guide. May you ponder this as you secure your armor. Suit up and keep it on, don't pack it away.

"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Eph. 6:10 -17, NLT).

Father, we thank You for Your armor that You have provided for us to wear each day to stand firmly against evil. Thank You for the sword of the Spirit, Your holy word, to guide us through this life. We love You, Father. Thank You for Jesus. We love You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.