Shade Tree Wisdom 2/28/12

          A fine drizzle, that turned into a mist that soon left cut the morning walk short.

          But I hasten to say something further about that poison ivy we managed by smothering the roots.

          Yes, I too wish that is the way with temptations.  Smother them, and forget them.  But that is not what the facts are.  St. Peter reminds us that “The devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour.”  It is on-going this temptation that dogs our days.  It is sneaky, it is sly it is underhanded, it comes from left field, unexpected, harsh, unending.

          So our Loving, merciful God has armed us.  “Whom resist steadfast in the faith”: is the Word.

          The Whole Armor of God
“10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.  11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.  13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.  14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.  16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, “Eph 6, 10-17

          Temptations do come, but you go to meet them armed with “The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.”

GPD 2/28/12