Miracle on Grace Street

I can hardly believe my eyes! How has this entire year flown by so quickly. It certainly makes me think of the promise in God's word:

"Unless the Lord had shortened those days, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect, whom He chose, He shortened the days." (Mark 13:20, NASB)

To me shortened days are another way of saying that time has sped forward. So here I was on my day off taking the children to school when on the radio another song caused my heart to soar. In a gist the singer was saying that many called being saved a miracle while in all reality it was truly grace. 

It is my belief that the gift of grace compared to the amount of guilt and desperation of the receiver is what causes the divide that causes some to remain as mere Christians verses those that become a follower of Christ.

Those that have read my book, my life story, know that I was held in the chains of slavery. Hopeless beyond words when looking at the big picture. Even there, I truly believed others could be saved but that I myself had lost the right to such a gift. When the truth met me where I was at, I experienced a freedom that drove me to study and learn how to pass this 'miracle' this gift of grace onto others who to felt like they too were unworthy of God's redemption. 

In this world, we face a spiritual battle that never stops. Sure we find moments of rest where it seems like nothing could go wrong but seriously one dive into the Bible and that notion is put to rest. Christians are promised trials and tribulations. That is due to the truth that Satan does not want our light to shine so bright that we draw others to the LORD. He longs to snuff out our flame. This is why you see so many Christians flounder in their faith. The path is not easy but there is so much joy in it when you get beyond a certain point. 

Being saved is great, but having communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is truly life changing. You will find joy in the littlest of things. For instance, there have been moments in my life where my job was easy and my pay was great. Today that is so far from the case it is laughable. However what is true is that I find joy in every day. I laugh and smile everywhere I go. Truthfully I don't always laugh when it is Mike and I by ourself. I wish I could transfer all I know right into that man of mine for then he too would be a mighty warrior for the LORD. Unfortunately, Mike is stuck at stage one and without the true desire to submit, there he will remain.

At times I get so upset by the things he says to me, by the things he should provide but does not that it is all I can do to stay calm and walk with the LORD. This morning is one of those days and to be honest, I knew I was not strong enough to show grace while he was being used as a pawn against me. Instead, I removed myself from the situation by loading up the laundry, grabbing my computer and heading out the door to spend some time with God and reflecting on the truth in His promises.

Everyone can be used as a pawn by Satan. Even those that walk with the LORD. This is just another thing that Satan uses to try to keep others from seeking the LORD for they see the majority of Christians as fakes. We are not fake, we are just as susceptible to the ways of the flesh as the rest of humanity. It takes great study and constant renewing of the mind to be able to walk in the Spirit more often then we fall to the flesh. I am guilty of falling to the flesh when I allow Mike's insults to penetrate my armor. Murder we are told begins in the heart and the spark for it all is anger:

[21] "You have heard that the ancients were told, 'You shall not commit murder' and 'Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.[22] But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.

Anger at Mike is not what I long to show him. However, Satan wants nothing more than for me to be angry with Mike for in my anger, I am certain to be a stumbling block for him. THAT is something that I do not long for at all!

I have blogged in the past that when we get angry, we are quick to stoke the fire. As each person throws their own piece of wood on the fire, things can spiral out of control. Someone has to be the bigger person and put their own wood down. I am certain that we all have enough dirt on every person we build a relationship with to cause another person to literally combust but in all honesty is that even what we want? NO! Then why do we go there? Because we don't understand how to show others grace while they attempt to bring us anger and often, we are not wearing our armor due to not taking the time each morning to get dressed in it fully.

I am working on my next book. It is going to be called You Are Worthy Too: In the Midst of Spiritual Warfare and it is my prayer that in reading it countless learn just how to use their Spiritual Armor for as Paul famously advises us in Corinthians:

[4] For the weapons of our warfare are not those of the world. Instead, they have the power of God to demolish fortresses. We tear down arguments [5] and every proud obstacle that is raised against the knowledge of God, taking every thought captive in order to obey the Messiah.(2 Corinthians 10:4-5, ISV)

I must keep my focus on that truth when I face Mike and the weapon of the tongue that he uses against me. He speaks lies and accusations meant to make my blood boil at moments and it is only in using my weapons of warfare provided by the LORD God that I am able to stand firmly alongside the Spirit. It is in taking his words captive and comparing them to what I know is truth that his words fall uselessly to the floor, unable to bring anger to my heart. It is my prayer that the trilogy book I published at the start of this year will help you in multiple ways for now. Within it is actually a bonus chapter from the book You Are Worthy Too: In the Midst of Spiritual Warfare.I encourage you to purchase your own personal copy today by clicking on this link

I love the song that says, "There is an Army rising up" for I am a part of that mighty army and I am humbled and honored to be such a warrior. I pray that countless soldiers do indeed rise up for we are in for a fight for lives literally! The harvest is plenty and the workers are few, I pray that that tide changes as well. For now, I leave you with link to that song followed by the lyrics:

"Break Every Chain by Jesus Culture"

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

To break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

All sufficient sacrifice

So freely given

Such a price

Bought our redemption

Heaven's gates swing wide

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There's an army rising up

There's an army rising up

There's an army rising up

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There's an army rising up

There's an army rising up

There's an army rising up

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

There is power in the name of Jesus

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

To Break every chain

Break every chain

Break every chain

Lyrics provided by A-Z Lyrics

Father, I pray that there truly is an army rising up. I pray that you link us up with one another and allow us to encourage and spur one another on in hopes of helping lead countless lost souls back to you! I pray that somehow Mike hears the truth and comes to belief. I pray the same for all my children, family, friends and all who I have yet to meet and all I never meet for we are all your children. Thank you for opening my eyes to the truth and always finding ways to spur me on! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God, Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

Kings Verses Queens!

In my new line of business, Sundays are often referred to as the hardest day of the week. This is due to the truth that most people check out of their hotel room on Sunday so your odds of having 16 checkouts increases dramatically. In all honesty, for the last few days that I have worked, it seems that I have had no less than 14 checkouts. I have even joked that I didn’t think a Sunday could be worse than days I had already faced. Today, I ended up with the dreaded 16 checkouts! The only good thing about a checkout is that you have no fear of not being able to get your 16 points due to having a customer refuse service while there are no other available rooms for you to grab. When that takes place, you are no longer allowed to stay for your full eight hour shift.

Right now we are so slow that we are lucky to get put on the schedule for four days a week, with that being the case, no one wants to be sent home early. So when I picked up my board this morning, I quickly scanned the list of rooms that were placed on mine. I am blessed to have already earned my own section, guaranteeing me my own cart which thankfully I had been able to get fully stocked the day before. I sighed as I realized I indeed had all checkouts in my section along with one room on the fourth floor.

When we get our print outs, as long as the rooms on it are computer printed, we can tell which rooms are kings and which ones are queens. When a room number is written in, unless you have it memorized, it is a guessing game on which kind of room it is. A king room is preferable as it has only one bed, all queens have two beds in them. Regardless, both types of rooms are only worth one point. Seeing how the math works out to allowing 17 minutes per room to get it stripped and restaged, a second bed is not only a lot more work and lifting, it takes a few minutes more to complete. I quickly scanned down my list and realized I had a minimum of 5 queen rooms. For the life of me, I could not recall what the room upstairs was. Since that was the case, I knew I would be skipping both of my optional 15 minute breaks. By the grace of God, I was down to my last two rooms with an hour left to complete my duties. I opted to go upstairs and do the room on the fourth floor. One of the stockers had come by with the linens I needed and I asked him if he knew if my room upstairs was a king or queen. I mentioned that I feared it was a queen room and he replied, “4208 yeah, I believe it is a queen room.” I laughed tiredly and stated I was off to get it out of the way. When I popped open the door, I realized it was a king room and I literally put my one hand to my mouth, choked back a sob and my eyes literally teared up as I thanked God for my little blessing. It may sound silly to most of you but one less bed is a major thing when your back hurts as much as mine does!

Honestly it amazes me that I am able to perform the daily work that I do. In less than 60 days, I have dropped so much weight that Mike has begun to call me, “skinny girl”. I only own two pair of comfy pants and they are both getting kind of silly big on me. I have to roll down the tops so that the waist is thick enough to stay up. Since they are both gifts from my Grandma from Mackinac Island, I refuse to give them up. I will have to put a stitch in them soon.

Tonight I came home and put on a pair of Mike’s sweats. Marissa asked me where I got them. When I answered that they belonged to her dad, she said, “Wow Mom, you really are getting skinny!” to which I laughed.

Mike asked me the other day how I was able to deal with my job and my rate of pay. I told him it was due to the fact that I tell myself I am not going to work, I am going to physical therapy and a weight loss program. The craziest thing is I get paid to go instead of having to pay for it!

I caught myself in the mirror the other day and about fell over. When you wear only lose clothes, you don’t really see the change that much. I have not been on a scale, but one thing for sure is I have not been this in shape since before Jeffrey was born. Who knew becoming a maid in a hotel would change all that! In my heart I know the answer, "God did". I have mentioned more than once that He often answers your prayers in the strangest ways!

I have no idea how much longer we will continue to reside here. Who really knows how long they will be in one place? What I do know is that I will enjoy each day that I am here. I will continue to view my job as something other than it is. One of the best blessings that has stemmed from my job would be the new sister in Christ that I have gotten to know. Her name is Katie and she is a follower of Christ. I have made mention before that there is a difference between being a Christian and being a follower of Christ. It is nice to have someone I see that spurs me on. Just seeing her in the morning puts a smile on my face!

Tonight when I got home, I was able to enjoy listening to some Christian music and I heard this new song. I had to laugh for I do believe I am living a crazy life right now. I am blessed to know where and how to find peace in the mix of the craziness but I thought the gist of the song was perfect for the majority of those seeking a better way, unfortunately I have been unable to locate the song on You Tube myself. When I do, I promise to add a link to it as well as the lyrics to this blog. Christ promises us peace in the midst of the madness and this is basically what the song is pointing out. If you have not accepted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior yet, I can only assume that is due to the fact that you do not know who He is. I invite you to learn just who He is today; especially if you yourself feel like you are leading a crazy life without peace!

A lot of people ask me where to start. They make mention that they read or try to read the Bible but that it makes no sense to them. I once was in your shoes myself. In 2012, God called me forth to begin telling my story. To date, I have published a trilogy . . . three true life books in one that I have been told are really well written. I have been blessed to hang out with and love others who have read my story. My nick name no matter where I go seems to become, “Miss Sunshine”. I secretly like it for to me it means that I am indeed a light on a hill, otherwise why would people always call me by such a name?!?

Jesus stated, [14] “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV)

I invite you to read my story in hopes that you may come to faith in Christ. Simply click here today to own your own copy of the book that God called me forth to write. It is my prayer that in reading, your eyes and ears are opened and you are drawn into your own relationship with our heavenly Father. Life can be abundant. Don’t you want that for yourself and your loved ones?

Wendy, walks with God, Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

The Best Laid Plans!

I cannot believe it is already Friday night. I have gotten some things done but have fallen short of my personal goals. I had thought with three days off I would publish a blog long before tonight. However that has not panned out. I have stated time and time again that I am just a girl. I have also pointed out that we live in a fallen world and we are in the midst of a Spiritual War that cannot and will not be won by worldly means.

This week I made the announcement that I was going to share much of what is taking place in my life and how even though things have not gone according to the way I have thought, I have not lacked for the need of anything. God has provided in ways that prove His hand is the one providing. That kind of news is something that Satan would prefer to keep a lid on, hence my own personal battle began immediately.

I had planned on sharing things that God had provided and was quite excited about it all when the attack began. First, I was gifted five $5.00 gift certificates for the local laundry mat. Many of you may be surprised to learn that I do an average of two loads of laundry a day add blankets to that tally and the count increases. I spend anywhere from $20 to $25 every week! Since I had $25, I decided to wash even coats. This brought my count to 16 loads of laundry this week. I joyfully filled the machines with our items and went to cash in my certificates only to be informed that I was allowed to use only one at a time. After a polite discussion with the ladies behind the counter acknowledging how they thought these things were to work and the truth that there was no mention of a limit on the certificates, one of them agreed to let me use two of them this time. I had no cash on me and they did not accept debit cards so I had to leave and withdraw cash. I started the four machines that I could with the $10.00 they allowed me and left to get another $20 out of my account. I decided to not let it get me down. I focused on the good things caused by the situation. I got to listen to a great teaching on the radio as I drove to the local grocery store. I filled my cup back up with my favorite ice when I went in for free and I purchased my favorite cold coffee drink in order to withdraw money without a fee. When I arrived back at the laundromat, my first four loads were almost finished and I started the rest of the machines. I thanked God for the benefit of being able to dry all my clothes in my favorite dryers because of the way they were staggered due to the time gap. The only thing I did not have time for was blogging. I knew the enemy had one that point but he had not robbed me of my peace and joy. That is what living an abundant life is all about.

I promise you, the best laid plans are often ruined. If you are not wearing your spiritual armor the littlest of things will throw you off. You must recognize the truth and keep your focus on it:

(1) We live in a fallen world

(2) Many do not know who they are in Christ so they can be easily moved by Satan.

(3) Most Christians are content with the fact that they are saved and never study, grow, or share the truth (the good news) with others.

You simply cannot get upset by the things that others say and do. You must always check those things out against Scripture. There is a reason that the sword of the Spirit is part of you armor. It is the word of God. Think of it as a manual that teaches you how to walk through a mine field without getting blown up! Not only can it protect you, it teaches you how to fight and win!

Recently I mentioned to a friend that many of us as children and even as adults acknowledge there is a God. The sad truth is that we don’t want to submit to what His word has to say so we make excuses of why we don’t follow it or read it. Some say they have read the entire bible but they truly have no understanding. They have stories mixed up ~ no wonder they think the word of God contradicts itself! I promise you God is faithful and He does not contradict Himself. I have spent the last few years of my life studying and I could study every day for the rest of my life and learn new things about God but none of the things I have learned to date have revealed contradictions in God’s word. I have come to learn that He is faithful and true and loving.

I also have come to realize that we seek God and the Holy Spirit comes alongside us as a teacher and points us to Jesus Christ who walks alongside us loving us right where we are and the entire time, He points us to the Father.

So many people in the world are looking for an answer on how to fix the world. The truth is there really is no fixing it. It is fallen. We are promised a new world and that is completely different than the New World Order that our beloved government promises will bring peace. The world itself will not fix our fallen world. It’s such a sad joke that I don’t pay much attention to the news. Yes there are many problems and the truth is they are only going to increase in madness. You can stockpile food and ammo and gold but none of that is going to save or protect you when the crap truly hits the fan. I often joke that I am counting on God to drop manna from heaven for me. I point out that the children of Israel walked in the wilderness for forty years without want. Sure they whined and complained but we read that their clothes did not wear out, God delivered birds from the sky along with the manna and even though they were surrounded by countless enemies, they never were approached or threatened by any of them. To me that speaks of both immense provision and protection by the LORD. I truly believe He will perform those very miracles or others as incredible for me until my end time. I don’t know when my time will end no more than we know the time that Christ will return what I do know is we all have an end time. We are like vapor. Here one day and gone the next. Our life span here on earth is not immense. Our original design was indeed to live forever. I am glad I do not have to live forever in my current position. Yes. I love the LORD God with all my heart but my flesh gets in the way a lot! I take a look in the mirror daily repenting for my thoughts, actions and moments of anger. I long to more Christ like, to handle things in a more Godly fashion, however at times I fall short. I know I am a far cry from perfect. The best thing is that I know God loves me, that He wants more for me and that one day the flesh nature will no longer have any influence on me. What a relief that will be for the flesh will not have a pull on anyone. That is when we will discover just how divine peace truly is. In the mean time, we must be content with the gifts of abundance that God provides us with in the here and now and trust me, they are many for those whose eyes are open.

For instance, my last paycheck was only $299 for two weeks. I was only on the schedule for 5 days out of 14. There was no way I could afford to pay for a months rent unless something changed. I prayed for provision but put no stipulations on how my provision would be delivered. Low and behold God brought two people back into my life that I truly thought I would never see again. That night I was blessed to share truth with this elderly man who knows his end time is coming quickly and was worried about facing his creator. I truly believed that what the Spirit had me share with him put his mind at ease. When they left to head back out of state, they blessed us with a solar panel that provides enough power to allow us to have our DVD player, lights and our water pump. They also blessed us with a Coleman double burner grill so cooking is no issue and because we get to dry camp for free, I was able to fill my propane tank so we have hot water for showers and washing dishes. I have gone without nothing and ironically because we are closer to the Casino on the dry lot, I actually pick up the Free WiFi that I could not get while paying rent for the last five weeks. I truly live an abundant life because I am not driven by worry ~ I know I serve a powerful God. I know He loves me tremendously and I know He will answer when I call on Him. The coolest thing about my God is the way He chooses to answer me. Sure He could have provided me with the funds to pay rent but what a blessing it is to be able to live off grid and have my own power thanks to the sun that my creator placed in the sky!

It is my prayer that your faith be increased, that worry is something that no longer manipulates your day. May your chains of slavery be broken and may you begin to trust in the LORD God to provide and protect you, knowing that He always has you. We are saved by faith through grace. Nothing more, nothing less! I encourage you to read my personal story which pulls back the curtain on it all. Simply click here to purchase your copy today!

Wendy, walks with God, Mom of many!

© Wendy Glidden 2015

Daily Blessings!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! This is the first time in many years that I have not been with family over the holidays. Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorites. Instead of eating and lounging this year, I had the pleasure of working. For those of you who don't know, I am currently a G.R.A. those initials stand for Guest Room Attendant which is a fancy way of saying I am that girl you see in the hallway with a cart full of linens and toiletries in every hotel.

I had hoped that today would be a great day for tips but that was not the case. I truly need a boost in my income as my paycheck for the last two weeks was only for 37 hours. The Casino that I work at has been a little slower than usual. I have been praying for the business to pick up and this week it did. I went from being scheduled for four days to be called in for two of my off days and next week I also get to work 4 days! That is a lot better than 5 in two weeks!

Tips have not been the greatest these last couple of weeks either, but I serve an incredible God and He is always blessing me in some way or another. When I got only $6 in tips on Tuesday I turned to him in prayer. I knew my paycheck would barely cover two weeks rent leaving nothing for laundry which is a major bill with five children. Low and behold, Tuesday night, fellow RVrs that we had met over holloween showed up with a fully cooked Turkey dinner and five $5 tokens for the laundromat I go to! Life is amazing when you always turn to the LORD with your needs and fears.

Tomorrow I will have 16 more rooms to strip, clean and restage. I am going to bed tonight in hopeful prayer that hearts are moved to leave me something in my tip envelopes! A girl can dream, right!?!

One of the coolest parts of my week at work was when another lady that I have given Melaleuca cough drops to when she truly needed them, showed me a trick when it comes to making beds that not only cuts my time in half, it also enables me to make beds so tight you could bounce a quarter off of them!

The beds are by far the hardest part of restaging the rooms. She cut my time down to almost three minutes verses seven! That is a major thing in my line of business! 4 x 16 saves me an hour of time and energy! Talk about a gift that will continue to give for as long as I remain in this oh so humbling line of work! The other cool thing that happened is a lady who has seen me reading my bible brought me a concordance to use!

Being a Guest Room Attendant is by far the hardest job I have ever had, but there are parts of it that I truly love. It is cool to be able to make a bed in under four minutes flat! For the majority of my day I am by myself so I have time to converse with God. During my breaks I get to hang out with fellow co-workers and we are spoiled by our break room. It is a fully loaded cafeteria. We get free lunch, free coffee or drinks, including milk and cereal all day lol. They are always putting out treats during the day as well. I have never worked anywhere where you get to eat such great food for free.

No matter where you are in life, no matter what work you are currently doing, there are going to be daily blessings. It is my prayer that you keep your eyes open so that you see them and give thanks when they manifest in your life!

Be blessed my friends,

Wendy, mom of many, walks with God

© Wendy Glidden 2015

All I Need!

This morning as the children boarded the bus, another boy that rides the bus with them glanced at my feet, smiled at me and said, “I like your shoes.” I laughed; they are a mix match of my two favorite slippers. I used to have their mates. I am thankful I at least lost the right of one and the left of the other. After all, I could be completely without.

I found myself quickly in a conversation with God as I pondered on those things and instantly I laughed as I thought about taking the picture you see for this blog. I may not have everything I want today but one thing is certain, I have all I need.

I was led this morning to read this entire Psalm. It drew me in. I pray it does the same for you:

PSALM 63: God Alone a Refuge from Treachery and Oppression: (NASB)

My soul waits in silence for God only;

From Him is my salvation.

[2] he only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.

[3] How long will you assail a man, That you may murder him, all of you, Like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence?

[4] They have counseled only to thrust him down from his high position; They delight in falsehood; They bless with their mouth, but inwardly they curse.

Selah.

[5] My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him.

[6] He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.

[7] On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.

[8] Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.

Selah

[9] Men of low degree are only vanity and men of rank are a lie; In the balances they go up; They are together lighter than breath.

[10] Do not trust in oppression And do not vainly hope in robbery; If riches increase, do not set your heart upon them.

[11] Once God has spoken;

Twice I have heard this:

That power belongs to God; And loving kindness is Your, O Lord, For You recompense a man according to his work.

God truly is my everything and therefore I have all I need. While some may look weirdly in my direction, my feet are warm and cozy each one in its own way ha ha.

There are moments in my life where I never talked to God. In reading my trilogy, that truth is undeniable. It is through my story that anyone can easily see that we all must remember when things in this world get rough, that God has truly provided us a way ~ we must seek to recognize what blessings are available to us at all given times. One thing I have learned in looking back at my life is that I had choices I allowed myself to be blinded from.

As you read my trilogy, I encourage you to reflect upon the LORD; how He has perhaps moved throughout your own life and call out to Him. If you are angry, confused, frustrated, lost as to why you are going through something, go to Him with that. I simply encourage you to go and KEEP going back. EVERY day go back. The more often and honestly you talk to Him, the clearer you will hear, see, feel, and know instinctively what to do in various situations.

This requirement for a relationship with God is not a hit or miss kind of thing. Admittedly, He is often an emergency buddy for many. To find your way to peace, joy and an abundant life, you must make contact with the LORD every day.

I invite you to read my trilogy today. It will help open your eyes to the things that are not always visible to the naked eye.

Wendy Glidden, walks with God, mom of many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

Everyone is Complex!

I had to laugh today when I read the encouraging word of the day that K-Love emailed me. It has been a rough couple of weeks for me. While there have been daily blessings and I have gotten so much better at keeping my focus, the truth is sometimes the trio comes on so strong, I stumble momentarily.

Who are the trio you may ask? Well . . . crazy, insanity, and chaos are one of them, trials, tribulations and turbulance are another! The evil one comes at you any which way he thinks might pan out for him.

I often picture myself in my head in all my armor. It helps me keep my focus on the truth. For those that don't know, there are five children under the age of eleven at home. I am bound to a man who honestly has not discovered who he is in Christ and who also happens to be just fine with that. He is in what many would count as the first mansion. Deep in his heart he knows there is a God, he is just not ready to submit to God as the head of his house. This is where and how the famous trio enters into my house and my life!

With that being said, this is today's encouraging word courtesy of K-love:

Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous - how well I know it. (Psalm 139:14, NLT)

How true! I must remember that not only am I complex via my makeup, I am complex in my thinking and emotions. In that truth, I must also remember that I am not alone in my complexity. All those I come into contact with are just as complex!

Over the last 18 months, I have lived all over the place. I have met a lot of people that have been a blessing in my life in one way or another. Some in multiple ways. Currently I live in Laughlin, Nevada at the local KOA. My occupation title is "Guest Room Attendant". Pretty fancy when you consider I am truly that girl pushing a cart full of linens and toiletries who sets the stage or tidies up the stage of your average hotel room! It is by far the hardest work for the least amount of pay I have ever performed in my life! The perks of my job would be this:

1.  I have been paid to lose weight.
2.  I can strip and remake a bed in 4 minutes flat with two sheets, a fleece blanket, top cover, and four pillowcases. We have a little 3' cover thing that goes at the bottom of the bed as well but for the life of me I cannot think of its proper name.

Sadly, even though it is much warmer here than back home in Indiana, the hotel I work at is not busy. We are so slow that my work week went from 5 days to three days and now I am on the schedule for only two days. There is no way I can afford to stick around at that rate. My rent is paid through the end of the month and once again, I am leaning on God's promises of provision. I feel that He used me to help spur on a few others who will do great things for the Kingdom of God. They just needed a dose of faith. I am honored and humbled to have been called a "God Send". All my life I wanted to be one who helped God's people. This month I have given my book to three people. Before it is over, I believe that tally will be four.

****** Almost 24 hours have passed since I wrote the things above. I had planned on finishing this post with something on faith and the lack of worry, yet the day got away from me. Sometimes it happens ~ the craziness of a life with five hungry children with homework to get done and chores still left to do before the sun sets!

With that said, something cool happened to me last night. I was given a slide show on my next book and finally see how it is going to be sown together! I have a lot of work ahead of me but I am excited to get to it. May it bless all who read it. It will be a great follow up to my previous three books that are now available in one complete volume: "You Are Worthy Too: The Proof is in the Pudding"

With Christmas right around the corner, it is my belief that my personal true life story would bless someone in your life that you love and long to inspire. After all, who doesn't love a true life story with twists and turns that end in a rewarding way. Purchase a copy today for yourself and then pass it on to someone you feel would benefit most! May you be blessed by my story. May it increase your faith and your joy. I leave you with this final picture and verse:

Wendy, walks with God, Mom of many!

© Wendy Glidden 2015

What Are Your Cup Stats?

Today is one of those days where I am so thankful to know who I am in Christ. I am exhausted, beat up and tired. I have been crying for the last hour but please do not feel sorry for me. Even Jesus cried you know!

I keep thinking about that age old question, "How full is your cup?"

My cup I promise you is always overflowing. I say that because I know who I am in Christ. I know my destiny. Today is just a pit stop along the way. I choose to keep my eyes focused on what lies at the end of this often long, hard, grueling road that I walk on. It is in knowing the truth that I am able to smile and laugh beyond the heartache and tears that plague my daily life.

The evil one will use people, places and things to attempt to drag you down and beat you up. Don't ever forget that He who is in you is stronger than he who is in the world.

That does not mean that life is going to be easy. Truthfully, it is most likely going to be hard. It may at times kick your rear end, but it does not concur you.This is how you come to realize there is a God.

I live with a man who often mocks my faith even though he has witnessed first hand some of the things God has done for me. He believes that because our life is hard, because I am not a famous writer, because I am not rich that I serve a false God. He is WRONG. I serve a loving God who carries me through trials and tribulations that are fierce.

I have been in the pit of hell and I climbed out smiling with Jesus at my side. Yes, I cry. Yes, I have hard days. Pick up your bible and you'll discover I am not alone in this.

King David loved the LORD. He praised him, sang to him, worshipped him and credited him throughout his life. King David also fell to temptation and when confronted repented unlike King Saul.

As the bible makes it clear, not one of us is without sin. Not one of us! However, God did not send his son into the world to condemn us. He sent Him into the world to save us. Today is just a day. When you step back and look at the big picture, days, weeks, years, fly by. The older we get the faster they seem to go. One cannot deny that we truly are like vapor. Here today, gone tomorrow. What we do with our lives matters only in the respect of who we lead to Christ for Christ leads us all to the Father. When you read all He spoke, you see that He is always pointing to the Father.

As a child I walked and talked with God. It was in seeking him later in life that I discovered Christ and it was indeed my seeking and coming to understand the word of God thanks to my searching out just who Christ was to me that I came to truly know and love my heavenly Father.

If it were not for my understanding of things, that I am in a spiritual battle, God only knows where I would be today for my life is a far cry from a garden of roses! My life is also a far cry from absolute hell. I am blessed for today I walk with the LORD again. He comforts me through my tears and it is in keeping my focus on him that I am able to smile when the children return from school.

Today I leave you with some great advice that was written a long long time ago:

Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. (Philippians 4:8, NASB)

In other words, don't get stuck in the mud focusing on all that is wrong in the world or in your personal life. Things as we all have come to witness change . . . what is constant is the Love of God. Keep your focus on those things mentioned and you too will see your cup as always overflowing!

Wendy, walks with God, mom of many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

Why We Must All Dress in Our Full Suit of Armor Daily!

Once there was a young girl who was blessed to walk with God. She loved to dream about ways that she would grow up and help His people. Some might say she often talked more than she listened. However, these things are certain where this child of God was concerned:

(1) She knew about God’s laws for she was taught in those things by the Spirit.

(2) She knew that a lot of people did not talk or seek to know God.

(3) She understood that many of them seemed to be trapped in misery and that included                                her very own mother.

This young girl wanted nothing more than for everyone to come to know the God that she walked and talked with. She truly believed that money would somehow help the masses and she longed to be someone who could bless others financially. She often thought of ways that God could bless her later in life financially so that she could bless countless others. She was lost as to the larger picture of God’s plan and often came to Him with her ideas of how to fix the world.

She never truly knew God as a father in her youth. She saw Him as her best friend. Mistakenly she also saw Him as someone who had some powers but who must need help from someone on earth since He had not fixed all the problems of the world himself!

It is not known for sure if this young girl had ever heard God’s advice regarding the need to read and study His word. We do know for certain though that she did not know His word for she knew nothing of her armor, nor did she understand fully the darkness that lurked in the world!

As this same young girl blossomed into a young adult, the lures of the world began to draw her away from the time she spent with God. While she knew right from wrong, she longed to be accepted by those she now counted as friends. As time drifted by, she chose wrong over right more and more often. Even though she had not committed any worldly crimes , she knew she was breaking God’s laws. That alone made her uncomfortable and she sought to hide from Him more than she sought Him out.

Without knowing about the schemes of the devil, she found herself bombarded with negative thoughts about herself and how God thought of her. It wasn’t long before she believed one of Satan’s biggest lies; “God no longer finds you worthy.”

When she thought about going to God about how she felt, she was filled with so much fear over all her wrong doings she lacked the courage she needed to even strike up a conversation with Him.

As she drifted further and further away from God’s laws, she soon found herself believing that not only did God find her not worthy; she became convinced that God was out to get her. No longer seeing Him as a friend, she believed the lie that He was now her enemy.

Through the Catholic school her mother had enrolled her in, she learned about sin, hell and confession. She went to confession every week but she left feeling empty and even more unworthy of God’s time. She was beginning to resent God for being so strict and she believed that she was doomed to die and spend eternity in hell.

As life continued this young girl who had drifted from God transitioned into a grown adult who never sought out God for anything. As life went on, she made decisions she knew were against God’s laws. So much so she was certain He may strike her dead by lightening right where she stood, but alas He seemed content to let her suffer. That just made her view Him as a cruel God for a large part of her wanted her life to end. She had come to the point where she no longer saw any hope of her ever doing anything worthwhile with her life and she often questioned how she could ever be of any real use to anyone.

One day, the world and her problems became so large; she got on her knees and called out to God crying. She told Him she was tired of living life by her will and was ready to live life by His will. She truly longed to hear Him speak again. She knew to her very core that He was her only hope out of the situation she had found herself in. As she knelt before Him weeping, He called her by name. He then gave her a full reply to her prayer and even told her of something that would take place in her future.

She was so elated by all He spoke that she immediately sought to find a bible and she began reading His word that very day. Even though she was reading His word, she did not understand much and she was flipping from book to book completely lost as to how to truly begin gaining knowledge from what she read.

She knew she was going to need help so she sought out others who were also reading God’s word. She had a friend on Face Book that shared verses all the time so she asked her if she could help her gain understanding. She was blessed by her seeking, for this very friend invited her to join her bible study group that she was a part of. She excitedly shared that they were just beginning to study the Book of Ephesians. Thankful for the invitation, she accepted it and joined the group that following day.

As she learned about Christ, grace, and salvation, she began once again trusting God. She made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior the very week she learned the truth about Him.

She wondered why and how she had become so convinced that God was her enemy when His word made it clear that He loved us all. That very next week, she learned about her full suit of armor as well as the schemes of the devil. Understanding just how Satan had tricked her into giving up on her relationship with God, she never failed to wear her full suit of armor from that day forth!

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. [14] Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, [15] and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; [16] in addition to all, taking up the shied of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, (Ephesians 6:10-18, NASB)

May you be blessed in the reading of this allegory story!

Wendy, mom of many, walks with God

© Wendy Glidden 2015

An Example of How I Pray to God, Our Heavenly Father

Father,

Another day has begun and I am so thankful that I know you are always with me. My mornings as you know are often hectic with preparing the children for school and Mike’s morning personality. I thank you for the few minutes before the chaos begins as well as the moments after the children get on the bus just to converse with you. You are my strength and my peace, my Everything and I am so very thankful that I walk with you daily for it is you alone that fully replenishes my soul. I can see clearly throughout my life how you have trained me for the position I am longing for. The evil one attempts to fill me with fear after not getting a reply to my most recent email but I turn to you to still my heart. I know the game full well and I know that in you I am the victor. I chose to keep my focus on you, so in that I know if I don’t get this position that my heart so deeply desires that you have something else better in store for me and I am okay with that. I thank you for sending me back to school and for the timing of my last two classes, but especially for this one. As you are aware I have been seeking this information and so much more. I am so humbled to see clearly where I stand with you. I am in awe at how you have grown me spiritually and I pray that I will be a vessel you use in mighty ways to light the path for others. You know my heart so you are aware of my day dreams. I can see me doing so many things to shine your glory into the world from the position I hope to gain and I earnestly pray that I accomplish all I can see and then so much more. Please calm my anxious heart and keep my focus on you LORD. As the day of my second interview approaches you and I both know full well that the enemy will try to draw me into battle. Protect me LORD as you always do. Shield my mind from negative thoughts and self images. Let my light shine so brightly the owners are dazed by your beauty and see your love so brilliantly that there is no indecision in their decision. Let me be the one they are searching for my LORD. In the next 48 hours, calm my anxious heart and keep my focus on you! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

*** He is always listening and He already knows all there is to know about you. Open up daily and I promise the lines of communication will begin to flow right back. Peace to all who try.

Wendy, walks with God, Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

My Strength Comes From the LORD!

Simple

Sincere

Seeking

Sunday

I chose to rename each day a few years ago because the various names of the week I made up cause me to contemplate upon the LORD on a more regular basis. This week I learned that this contemplating on the LORD is a very important step in building your relationship with Him. It is VITAL to our well being that we contemplate upon the LORD daily. When we are instructed to pray without ceasing, this is one of prayers forms! How many things do you fret your head around in a given week? I make this challenge to you. When worry creeps up to your door, I challenge you to contemplate things. Ask yourself questions about your situation. Seek If you have been through something like this before. Go to God boldly and ask Him to reveal to you how you can move beyond this into something better. GIVE HIM THANKS. Reflect on all the times of trouble where you made it through. REFLECT. Contemplate. I KNOW that God was there for you were not completely destroyed. You got back up. Somewhere in the midst of that trial you caught a glimpse of an end of the battle, you got a dose of hope.

I have written blogs on the dark days of disconnect where after feeling immersed in God’s overwhelming love for me, I felt like I was by myself. I have come to learn I am never by myself. He is always with me. 

Back to my point, there truly are days of disconnect. Everyone has them. Even Mother Theresa had them. So here I am reading this required text for my current college class at Colorado Christian University and I am literally devouring this current book. I only needed to read Chapters 3-4. I almost finished reading it last night. The reason being is I am learning about the maturity of my relationship with the LORD and what I have to look forward to. I was surprised of how accurate the book was in describing my own personal walk with the LORD and I was humbled to see where I had been in what the author refers to as Mansions and Rooms. I was also thankful to read what I did regarding Spiritual Warfare. I write about it and talk about it often. I know I went through hellashish things while growing up. I know full well today what the enemy said to me and how in my rash immature emotional explosions I walked further and further away from God who truly was someone I had walked with on a regular basis. In my youth I can confidently say I met God face to face. I spent what felt like hours conversing with Him. This level of intimacy with God in a very real way set me up for a very intense level of trials and tribulations. 

I got a little choked up last night as I flashed once again on my past. I see where I am today. Free thanks to the Love of the LORD. I am blessed beyond measure and I am so grateful for the gigantic hope and faith doses I was given along the way. I just want for everyone to know God like I do. You would find peace in the midst of any given storm. I don’t want to weigh you down with the list of my worldly issues for truly they don’t matter. Today I am confident in the LORD and it truly changes things. I have friends who have gone so far as to tell me they admire my strength. Me! I laugh. I am not strong. I am just a girl. I can cry and wail with the best of them! My strength comes from the LORD. I am truly blessed to have lived the life I have. I’ve been sung to by angels, I was blessed to see and hear an angel who said something to me that I reflected on often during my darkest days, I know God knows my name because He has called me by it. I’ve seen light from heaven and I am living out some of my childhood dreams already.

So, what do I contemplate on Sundays? How simple my walk with the LORD has become. How wonderful it feels to know that He always has me; to have no fear. How grateful I am for His immense love. How blessed I am in this stage of my life. I sincerely love God. I sincerely want to share this gift with the world. I pray all my motives are sincere and I ask if there be any pride or lust for wealth and personal belongings in me that they be completely removed. I pray that in all my actions I am sincere in my heart. I seek what God has for me today. I ask Him to be bold in what He wants me to see. I remind Him that I am blind so bill board signs work best. I seek His advice concerning my relationships with others. I share with Him how I feel I may have failed in showing love in my various interactions and instead got caught up in my own feelings. I often pray that God help me in the areas I need help and that He uses me in greater ways. I pray He expands my terriortory. I pray I get to be a light in someone’s life. I ask to be one who helps a lost soul find their way back home. I pray that I am a mighty warrior who is there to help break the chains of bondage for others. I do all of this often throughout the day as I remember it is Sunday. You see, three years ago in my desire to be more focused on the LORD throughout the whole day, I renamed the days of the week so that I would contemplate upon the LORD and His various characteristics.

Here are my constant renamed days of the week. Sometimes, I add a word or change one if I feel I need to contemplate on something new.

Simple Sincere Seeking Sunday

Marvelously Magnificent Miraculous Monday

Totally Terrific Testimonial Tuesday

Wild Wonderful Wacky Wednesday

Tremendously Thankful Thoroughly Thoughtful Thursday

Fantastically Fun Filled Friends and Family Friday

Super Silly Sing-Song Saturday

Many of you know I wrote a ton of my story and republished it into a single book. Today I am confident once again that I wrote this as God called me forth to do because through my story you will learn more about the depth of spiritual warfare we all are drawn into. None are exempt.

I am going to publish another book soon that I have promised to publish for the last two years. Some stories take longer to get on paper than others. For now, I ask that you began building a foundation of faith in these things by purchasing a copy of my trilogy. Just click here to be taken to my author page on Amazon. I do offer a direct print purchase from my e-store as well. If you are going to purchase a print copy, please do so from this link.

I promise you will begin to see things you never saw before after you read this book. Keep your eyes open for my upcoming publication as well, “You are Worthy Too: In the Midst of Spiritual Warfare”.

I thank you for your support first in your reading and sharing my blog posts and second your financial support each time one of you purchases my life story. I promise it is not a boring read at all. If you love a good true life story, this is one you won’t want to miss out on. Again, click here for print and here for my author page and access to the book on kindle.

This is a picture I keep on my wall and I look at it every morning and every night. It represents Psalm 46 for me. As you can see, I am dressed in my full suit of armor for I know where my strength comes from. The LORD!

May you be blessed in reading my story, may you pass the blessing on <3. Peace, love and hope is what I pray for you. Please pray for strength, boldness and confidence for me to continue sharing the word of God with all who have an ear to hear! In Jesus' name I pray. Amen!

Wendy Glidden, walks with God, Mom of many.

© Wendy Glidden 2015

Some People that Inspire Me and Why!

Conversation Topic:

Jesus invites us to follow him (Matthew 4:19). In Streams of Living Water, Foster writes about notable figures in Christian history who answered Christ’s call to follow him. Select two of these notable figures, research their lives, and then answer the following questions:

1. How did they answer Christ’s call to follow him?

2. What is it about their lives that inspires you?

The first person I am writing on is Paul. He was always a believer in God, he just doubted that Christ was indeed the son of God as the Apostles claimed. We are told he was at the stoning of Stephen in Acts 7:54 and that he approved of the mob action. I love Paul’s story. I love how God uses everything for something good. Saul loved God, studied his word and we are told he was “A brilliant student” (Foster, Streams of living water). We know that “he studied under Gamaliel, the well known leading teacher of the school of Hillel.” This foundation in the Old Testament gave Paul an incredible background and leg to stand on when he preached to the Jews. I love that he was considered a Roman citizen for that allowed him opportunities he otherwise would not have had. Imagine the bible without the Epistle to the Ephesians! This he wrote from prison. Paul followed Christ from the moment he realized the truth. He spent his entire life sharing the truth, inspiring and warning all that he could get to listen. He inspires me because of all the trials and tribulations he went through and yet he continued to proclaim the mystery of Christ. When he asked for prayers, it was for more boldness to preach come what may! I love his writing style and I often can hear him when I read his letters. I love that he shares with us how to protect ourselves in this world against Satan and the powers of darkness. My desire is to be a modern day female Paul. I blog, I write and I share my life story with anyone whose ear I can bend.

The second person I decided to write on is James. I find James most intriguing because he grew up with Christ and doubted who he was until after he was resurrected and then he followed Christ full force. (Foster, streams of living water) While James letter is short and to the point, it is truly to the point. The first time I read it, my soul leapt with joy and I was like “yea!” James truly inspires me because he calls it like it is. I also admire him for recognizing the truth when it came to the issue of circumcision in the early church and led the elders to the decision that there was no need to weigh down the gentiles with things the LORD obviously did not require them to do. I always reflect on James challenge regarding faith and works.

But someone may well say, "You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works." (James 2:18, NASB)

This verse always helps me. I know that it is by my faith that I produce works. I am thankful that I no longer believe it is my works that will gain me favor with the LORD. That is a trap I never want to be in again!

3. How are you currently responding to Christ’s call to follow him?

I pray daily. I seek His will. I read the word of God every day. I boldly speak about my faith and love for the LORD and I blog. Today I received a message from a girl I met over the summer who stated my blog is helping her learn how to talk to God. I cried when I read it and believe it or not I was laughing at the same time. All my life I wanted to share the love of God with others and for a long time I believed due to my personal failures I was not of use. I thought I had to do something to earn God’s love back and when I was smacked in the head with the truth, I wept like a baby and have been grateful for discovering the truth ever since. I will proclaim the truth until I take my last breath.

 

Check out my author page on Amazon for a free sneak peak into all my books then save yourself 50% by purchasing the full collection all in one "The Proof is in the Pudding" by visiting my estore

Wendy Glidden, walks with God, Mom of many

© Wendy Glidden 2015

The Coolest Outfit You Can Own and Wear is Invisible to the Naked Eye!

Ephesians 6:10-20

All believers should know about the importance of wearing their full suit of armor every day so that they will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

I. Be strong in the Lord and get dressed for the battle.

            A. Our fight is not against flesh and blood

            B. It is important to know what we are fighting against.

                        1. Rulers

                        2. Powers

                        3. World forces of this darkness

                        4. Spiritual forces of wickedness in heavenly places

II. How a believer is to dress daily in order to stand firm against the evil day.

            A. Loins to be girded in truth.

            B. Hearts to be protected by the breastplate of righteousness

            C. Feet prepared with the Gospel of Peace.

            D. A shield of Faith

            E. Our Heads are covered by the Helmet of Salvation

            F. Our only weapon is the sword of the Spirit (the word of God).

III. Be alert and pray in the Spirit at all times.

            A. Pray for all things in the Spirit.

            B. Petition for all the saints.

            C. Always be alert and aware.

            D. Pray for boldness and courage for all who share the gospel.

There is not a single person, outside of Christ, who has lived a full life and not felt like the world was against them at some point. This is the exact reason why all of us who believe in Christ should be fully aware of the spiritual armor that God has blessed each one of us with, for as Paul warns us in Ephesians 6:12 (NASB), our struggle is not against flesh and blood. If it were, we would be more capable of dealing with things in our own strength. Rather, our fight is against things that can only be defeated by the implementation of all the spiritual weapons that are provided to us by our Heavenly Father. It is in the verses that follow that we will discuss just how all of us can protect ourselves against the fiery arrows that the evil one launches toward the children of God, as well as how we can best help our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Don’t be fooled, there is not one of us that does not come into battle with the dark side. It is only in learning how to dress for battle daily that we can be assured of standing firmly in our faith no matter what this world and the dark forces within it have to throw our way!

Professor’s notes: The main theme of Ephesians is, of course, the disclosure of God’s eternal divine purpose, which is the uniting together and reconciliation of all things in and through the person and work of Jesus Christ. In God’s plan of reconciliation, Jesus Christ is at the heart and center of all that the Father wills. And at the heart and center of Christ’s work is his church. Christ as its Head has given the church an awesome responsibility and role as the redeemed organism by which he brings unity to this alienated, fragmented and fallen world. As the body of Christ, the church is to live out the purposes for which it was called. The church’s calling is to exemplify before the world the unity and love of reconciliation for which Christ died and rose. The gospel of God’s grace has bestowed upon believers a higher calling in Christ. Therefore, believers as a body and as individuals are to conduct themselves in this fallen world accordingly “in Christ” to his glory.

Paul, who once was Saul, is the author of Ephesians. Paul was formerly Saul until he had an encounter with Christ Jesus. Saul truly believed that he was a defender of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob until that fateful day when he encountered Christ on the road to Damascus.

There are many interesting details regarding Saul who became Paul that I believe add flavor to all of his letters as well as his personal story. “Saul of Tarsus was born in approximately AD 5 in the city of Tarsus in Cilicia (in modern-day Turkey). He was born to Jewish parents who possessed Roman citizenship, a coveted privilege that their son would also possess. In about AD 10, Saul’s family moved to Jerusalem. Sometime between AD 15—20 Saul began his studies of the Hebrew Scriptures in the city of Jerusalem under Rabbi Gamaliel. It was under Gamaliel that Saul would begin an in-depth study of the Law with the famous rabbi.” (http://www.gotquestions.org/Saul-of-Tarsus.html)

It is Paul’s extensive knowledge of the Old Testament combined with his persecution of the first believers that makes his preaching, his ministry, and his letters so passionate. Paul truly desired for people of all kinds to come to understand the message of grace and then continue to grow from that foundation.

It is obvious that Saul loved God by his devotion to studying the law and his willingness as well as eagerness to travel in order to bring followers of ‘The Way’ (One of the first names given to the early church) to court and to what he felt was justice. After Saul’s transformation into Paul, he considered himself to be the worst among sinners and the very least of all saints.

He is credited with writing a major portion of the New Testament and was recognized as an Apostle of Christ by the other Apostles even though he never walked with Jesus while Jesus was here on earth. Paul truly longed for the Jews and the Gentiles to understand that they were all now part of the same promise and should to act accordingly.

[6] to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel, (Ephesians 3:6, NASB)

On Paul’s third missionary trip he ended up staying in Ephesus and ministering to the church there for almost three years.

This particular letter was written by Paul while he was being held as a prisoner in Rome. I think the most interesting thing about Paul’s time as a prisoner in Rome was the prison he was held in. As I mentioned earlier, Paul was a Roman citizen. This citizenship allowed him the opportunity to be held in a private room instead of a prison cell and he was watched over by a Roman soldier. Paul wrote this epistle (letter) somewhere between the year A.D. 60-62 and due to Paul’s captivity while it was written, it is often referred to as a prison epistle. One can almost envision Paul glancing at his fully dressed guard, realizing how referring to a Roman soldier’s full suit of armor would provide him with the perfect outline for all believers to fully comprehend how a warrior for Christ need to dress each day to stand firm in their faith.

The Epistle to the Ephesians truly highlights everything that a believer needs to know and understand in order to stand firm and grow in their faith. The first three chapters of Ephesians emphasize New Testament doctrine; that we are saved by grace through faith and not by works. The last three chapters walk us through the ways Christians should behave; to always be thankful for their immeasurable blessings in Jesus Christ which should also produce a desire to live in a manner worthy of such blessings. All Christians will go through various trials, tribulations and temptations of Satan. It is for this reason that Paul shares with believers the full and sufficient spiritual armor supplied to them through God’s Word and by His Spirit.

Be strong in the Lord and get dressed for battle

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. (Ephesians 6:10, NASB)

This verse alerts the reader that Paul is finishing up his letter by opening with the word finally. He has one last important piece of advice to give his readers. He wants to prepare them all for the battle he knows full well from his own experiences, we all will face. “We have one important need as we fight this war. It is the power of God. We ‘must be strong in the *Lord’. You cannot make yourself strong. God must give you strength. He must give it to you more than once. He must give it to you all the time. The *Greek word means ‘continue to let God make you strong’. Then Paul says ‘in the *Lord’, not ‘by the *Lord’, although that would be true. The strength comes from being united with Jesus. It comes from being ‘in Christ’. This is what Jesus taught (John 15:1-5). Apart from Jesus, the Christian can do nothing. So the strength that we have is in ‘his great power’. You could also say, ‘in the strength of his great power’.” (1997-2005, Wycliffe Associates (UK). http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/eph-lbw.htm).

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. ( Ephesians 6:11, NASB)

Paul uses the armor worn by Roman soldiers as an analogy that the readers of his day would be familiar with. He wants them to fully grasp how necessary this armor is for one to hold their position while under attack. The Greek word for schemes carries the idea of one who is clever, cunning and deceitful. The evil ones schemes include all sins, the lure of false idols, the teaching of false theology and religion as well as all worldly enticements.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12, NASB)

Some translations use the word “wrestle” in the place of struggle. Both of these words paint the picture of a type of hand-to-hand combat. Satan and his hosts often attack with trickery and deception. While these types of attacks are not truly hand-to-hand, they can truly make you feel like you are in a physical battle. I call these types of attacks “crocodile rolls” for the enemy comes at you swiftly with your greatest fears and if you are not prepared, you are sure to be taken under. Being prepared, you will have to use all of your armor to stand firm. Not many escape from a crocodile roll in real life!

The struggles we face, we are told will not be of flesh and blood, there are unseen spiritual forces at work. “If we do not guard our hearts, Satan has the ability to fill them with evil thoughts (Acts 5:3). If we do not “gird up the loins of our minds,” then Satan can blind our eyes and lead us astray (II Corinthians 4:4; 11:3). The Bible warns us that through some “snare,” Satan can take us captive to do “his will” (II Timothy 2:26). This snare is evidently the devil's allurement (temptation) to do evil. Of course, this does not teach us that Satan can force us to do his bidding against our own free wills, only that if we are not careful he can fool us or snare us through the “deceitfulness of sin” and the “deceivableness of unrighteousness” (Hebrews 3:13; II Thessalonians 2:10). Finally, the Bible clearly informs us that Christians, even in the 20th century, must not be ignorant of Satan’s “devices” (II Corinthians 2:11)” (A Study Of Ephesians, 2002 by Allan Turner, Allanita press, http://www.allanturner.com/eph_6.html)

Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you sill be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:13, NASB)

Paul simply reiterates the need for Christian soldiers to be prepared in their full armor so that when the evil day arrives, they will be ready and able to resist. The girdle, breastplate and shoes were items that the Roman soldiers wore at all times on the battlefield. The shield, helmet and sword were readily available should fighting begin. Every day since the fall of man has been evil. Our every day goal should be to stand firm against the enemy. The only way we can accomplish that is to be fully armed.

How a believer is to dress daily in order to stand firm against the evil day.

Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, (Ephesians 6:14, NASB)

This is the third time that Paul has called believers to stand firm. It is here that he begins giving more details on how we are to use our spiritual warfare. A Roman soldier dressed in a tunic of loose-fitting clothing that required a belt to be worn to cinch up the hanging material. (Exodus 12:11; Luke 12:35; 1 Peter 1:13) Often our lives can become loosely raveled and this is a reminder to stick to the truth, refraining from hypocrisy. The breastplate that the Roman soldiers wore covered their entire torso, sufficiently protecting their heart and other vital organs. This is a great analogy of how the righteousness of Christ protects the believer in spiritual battles. Without this righteousness, we are left vulnerable to the enemy of our souls, Satan himself.

And having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; (Ephesians 6:15, NASB)

The boots that the Roman soldiers wore had nails in them so that they had a better grip in the ground while in combat! The Gospel of peace allows the believer that same type of grip. When you are prepared with the Gospel of peace, you standing on a firm foundation. It is in our confidence of divine support that we are able to stand firm understanding that we are at peace with God and have nothing to fear. God is our strength and power. (Romans 8:31, 37-29)

in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (Ephesians 6:16, NASB)

This Greek word usually refers to a shield that is 2.5 x 4.5 ft. This shield was large enough to cover the entire soldier. It also had hooks on it so that the soldiers could stand together, locking their shield in place forming an invincible wall. In the same way, Christians can stand in faith together and move mountains. Our faith is a vital component as we are reminded that we are saved by grace through faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9)

“As faith is the grace by which all others are preserved and rendered active, so it is properly represented here under the notion of a shield, by which the whole body is covered and protected. Faith, in this place, must mean that evidence of things unseen which every genuine believer has, that God, for Christ's sake, has blotted out his sins, and by which he is enabled to call God his Father, and feel him to be his portion. It is such an appropriating faith as this which can quench any dart of the devil.” (Clarke, Adam. "Commentary on Ephesians 6:1", “The Adam Clarke Commentary". http://www.studylight.org/commentaries/acc/view.cgi?bk=48&ch=6. 1832.)

And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17, NASB)

As mentioned earlier, Satan schemes. He is not opposed to trying to destroy the believer’s assurance of their salvation. In battle, a helmet is worn to protect your head. A helmet of salvation is meant to be worn so that you never forget that you are saved and therefore have nothing to fear, including the loss of your salvation!

The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, is an amazing part of our armor. It is by the word of God that Jesus battled Satan in the desert. (Luke 4:1-13) As far as the readers of this book would have understood the analogy of the sword being used for the word of God, one only has to take a look into the training of the sword for all Roman soldiers. “The Spanish gladius, a two-edged sword which was used by the Romans during Paul's lifetime, was two feet long and two and one half inches wide, and was designed primarily as a thrusting weapon. With it, the Roman legions were successful in conquering the world. A great deal of skill was needed to master the gladius sword. It has been reported that the Roman authorities thought it needful for their soldiers to train for up to five years before they ever saw combat. Often the sword the soldier practiced with was twice as heavy as the one he would actually use in combat. Developing the strength to wield the heavier practice sword enabled the soldier to use the gladius sword very effectively.” (A Study Of Ephesians, 2002 by Allan Turner, Allanita press, http://www.allanturner.com/eph_6.html)

“Likewise, “the word of God,” which is actually “sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12), requires practice if it is going to be used effectively. Therefore, in his instructions to Timothy, Paul wrote: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (II Timothy 2:15). The skillful use of God's Word “belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14). When used skillfully, the sword of the Spirit pierces the heart (cf. Acts 2:37; 7:54). In order to defeat the enemy, the Christian soldier must learn to use the sword of the Spirit expertly.” (A Study Of Ephesians, 2002 by Allan Turner, Allanita press, http://www.allanturner.com/eph_6.html)

Be alert and pray in the Spirit at all times.

With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, (Ephesians 6:18, NASB)

This verse reminds all believers of the importance of prayer. We aren’t simply to pray, we are to use all forms of prayer and we are to pray at all times. Giving thanks to God is a form of prayer. Talking to God about the troubles you face is a form of prayer. We are also informed here that it is okay and expected to present petitions before the Lord. It is by being alert to the battles we face against unforeseen evil forces that we learn to pray in the Spirit. We are to not only pray for ourselves, we are to pray for all the saints and others as well.

[19] And pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, [20] for which I am an ambassador in chains, that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:19-20, NASB)

Paul doesn’t ask for the believers of his day to pray for his physical comfort or well being. Rather he asks for them to pray for his boldness and faithfulness. It is truly his desire to continue proclaiming the gospel even to his own detriment!

“Observe, Paul had a great command of language; they called him Mercury, because he was the chief speaker (Acts. 14:12 ), and yet he would have his friends ask of God the gift of utterance for him. He was a man of great courage, and often signalized himself for it; yet he would have them pray that God would give him boldness. He knew as well what to say as any man; yet he desires them to pray for him, that he may speak as he ought to speak. The argument with which he enforces his request is that for the sake of the gospel he was an ambassador in bonds, v. 20. He was persecuted and imprisoned for preaching the gospel; though, notwithstanding, he continued in the embassy committed to him by Christ, and persisted in preaching it.” (Matthew Henry's six volume Complete Commentary, 1706, http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/ephesians/6.html

Application for Ephesians 6:10-20

In today’s world it is vital that believers get up each day dressed in their full suit of armor. The battles that Paul spoke of to the church in Ephesus are the very same battles we face today. Without being fully dressed, our fast paced world is certain to take us under.

When Paul speaks of the shrewdness of Satan, he is leaving nothing out. At all times, we must be alert and we must pray in times of duress as well as in times of blessings. Our faith is something that is meant to be shared for by sharing we strengthen one another much like the Roman soldier’s strengthened their defense by sharing their shields to form a formidable wall.

In recognizing the training that the Roman soldiers went through in order to use a sword, we should understand that we simply cannot read the bible here and there and be prepared in battle. As the Roman soldier had to train, so must we. Not a day should go by that we don’t pick up the word of God, described in this letter as the sword of the Spirit and do a little reading. It is in reading the word of God that we begin to hear God himself.

Our armor is designed to keep us focused on the truth, having confidence in our salvation and always being prepared to share the gospel with the world.

It is in discovering that we have been set free that we should share the glory of God with all who come into our lives. By being alert and always praying for others, we should be able to discern evil for evil and recognize where our light needs to shine.

Bibliography

A Study Of Ephesians, 2002 by Allan Turner, Allanita press, http://www.allanturner.com/eph_6.html

Clarke, Adam. "Commentary on Ephesians 6:1", “The Adam Clarke Commentary". http://www.studylight.org/commentaries/acc/view.cgi?bk=48&ch=6. 1832.

Duvall, J. Scott; Hays, J. Daniel (2012-05-08). Grasping God's Word: A Hands-On Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible (pp. 229-230). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Got questions ministry, 2002 - 2015, http://www.gotquestions.org/Saul-of-Tarsus.html

Matthew Henry's six volume Complete Commentary, 1706, http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/ephesians/6.html

The MacArthur Study Bible, 2006, Thomas Nelson

Wycliffe Associates (UK), 1997 - 2005, http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/eph-lbw.htm

© Wendy Glidden 2015