Taking Inventory

In Biblical times, when a city had been attacked, the people would take inventory, inspecting their defenses to verify that the foundations (of the city wall) were still secure. In this way, they could see what held and what still needed more work. And of course they could praise God for the defenses that had proven effective.

In times of great joy, or when God has just brought us through a great trial, we should inspect our defenses. We too need to determine if our foundations are secure.

What foundations should we inspect? Our faith in God. Our intimate knowledge of Him. Our knowledge and practical application of His Word. Our obedience to His ways. An effective payer life. Fellowship with other Christ-followers. Each of these should remain strong. And when they are, we have reason to praise God for His divine protection.

I know many people who are struggling right now. The U.S. economy, health scares, family dysfunction, marital problems and other such challenges are before them. I talk to them and try to be encouraging. But I am reminded of the Apostle Paul's words in Ephesians 6:10-12, where he instructs us to "put on the full armor of God," so that we can stand strong in the face of life's adversities. And I wonder why we don't do that.

Too many self-professed Christ-followers are walking around with weak foundations. We are trying to fight battles without the "full armor of God." In some cases, our armor has been weakened in the battles. In other cases, we never had it on right in the first place. And we wonder why we seem to be losing the battles.

God intended us to win the battles. So let's inspect the victories. Let's prepare for the battles. And when damage to our foundations or armor is sustained - we know how to repair it. Seeking Him first, above all things, is still the mantra for successful Christian living. Check your inventory today, and see what state your foundations and your armor might be in.