All I can think of is Haiti.
If I were a gambling man, I’d say Haiti has had the worst luck of any country in history. It breaks my heart to see a country that is trying so hard to get itself together get repeatedly struck down by disaster.
I did what I could. I donated $10 to The Red Cross by texting “Haiti” to 90999. You can do that too for some immediate help. I’m also figuring out what I can give today to Compassion International’s disaster relief program…I have seen Compassion’s work. I trust them.
I’m reminded that we are in a serious battle.
You don’t travel into dangerous and dark places without being properly prepared. Or at least you shouldn’t. But how do we prepare ourselves for spiritual darkness?
The Word of God.
Sorry to be blunt…sorry for any cheese factor…but that’s it.
We have to know the Word of God.
A guy named Paul said this in a letter to the people of Ephesus,
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
In his letter he lists many defensive battle pieces. A belt, a breastplate, shoes, a shield, a helmet…
But there is only one offensive weapon that we have for the battle…The Sword.
The sword is the Word of God. Scripture. God’s promises to us…and we need to know His Word.
That’s the only way we’ll ever be able to destroy the darkness that seeks to steal, and kill, and destroy in our lives. We’ve got to know that book so that when the enemy comes to us and tries to convince us that we are nothing and that we’re worthless and all other kinds of lies…we can remind that enemy of the truth. That you, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. - 1 John 4:4
I am praying that I don’t sound like Pat Robertson right now.
So that’s what’s been on my mind this morning.
What’s on yours?
This can be an open forum for letting go of your stresses or throwing out prayer requests.
What a very Christian-y blog post today.
40 Comments
You SO do not sound like Pat Robertson! As a matter of fact I just put a link to your blog on my facebook page in response to some friends who were exasperated by his tendencies to give Christians a bad name.
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Thanks for your post. I needed some encouragement this morning.
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Thanks…needed that. No…not even close to Pat. Thanks for that as well.
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You hit the nail on the head.
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Trust. You do NOT sound like Pat Robertson. I heard what he had to say. Grrr. Well enough about that. Aside from the prayer request for the people of Haiti, that should be a blanket one, I would like to throw one out there for Cancer Sufferers and our Soldiers and their families. I have some of both, but figure even the ones I don’t know deserve prayers. Thank you for your blog. I read it every morning, and it always centers me. Or makes me hungry, or makes me laugh, and sometimes all three.
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Found you via Pioneer Woman.
These words have been coming back to me a lot lately. The part that sticks out to me is “the full armor of God” more then just one part. Each piece has a purpose and works with the rest to protect us. I live in a constant state of commotion and exhaustion. I feel pulled in opposite directions all the time. In all directions but the one I want to be headed. My life and my relationship with God have not been in balance. Sometimes I forget my breastplate, sometimes my shoes are too big, and sometimes I can’t even find my belt. I need consistent time in God’s Word. How is that for Christian-y?
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Where do we even start? That’s what’s been on my mind! Sure sending money is going to help. Praying is probably what will help the most. But when a country is so destroyed, how do you even begin to help them rebuild? The prison is destroyed, the palace is destroyed, elecricity is down, major government buildings are down… not to mention to countless people who are homeless, the thousands of people waiting for medical help, etc.etc.etc.
The faces of the children break my heart.
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Interestingly enough, I’ve been thinking a lot about an interesting point raised during our service the other day. That same scripture you quoted above was read, and the question was asked: what part of the body isn’t covered by the armor? The answer: the back. The reason: a Christian never runs from the battle—a Christian always forges on. That’s why there is no reason to cover the back.
And it made me think that this is why we need to continue working on building up our armor. We can’t just work on one thing and expect everything else to fall into place. I can work to learn to skillfully wield my sword, but if it doesn’t move me to live according to its righteousness, then my breastplate is weak. If I live according to the Word and yet don’t truly believe God’s promise of salvation, then I’m in the battle without a helmet. And if I don’t make an effort to share the gospel of peace—if by silence and fear of ridicule, I hide my faith, then my feet are not ready and I’m simply standing still.
If I learn to suit up properly and rely on that complete armor: the shield of faith, the Word of God, the helmet of salvation, the belt of truth, feet shod with the gospel, breastplate of righteousness … if all the pieces are there, there will never be any reason to run.
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Plano Mom says:
January 14th, 2010 at 5:13 pm
@ivoryhut, Amen!
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Though not in this passage, arrows are also an offensive weapon mentioned. Ps 127:4 relates them to children. How neat that children are our “front lines” reaching the enemy even before our swords are ready (though it could also mean they will go in the direction you point them). And how much more important then that we are diligent to teach them and guide them as a mighty man.
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Right on the nail - without the Word we have nothing as believers - it is the instruction manual, how to book, comfort giver, history lesson and love letter. We cannot solve Haiti’s problems - money and assistance can help for a time - but everywhere there is a disaster - unintended consequences result -http://sophinafrica.wordpress.com/2010/01/14/56-loads/
Some are wonderful some are awful and some are helpful. Give if you can - pray absolutely and trust that He knows what is happening. BTW - thanks for this post - very good and much needed.
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You Do sound like a man who loves God and loves God’s people! And who takes his relationship with God very seriously! Thanks for your post. It was encouraging. We too, are very concerned about and praying for the people of Haiti and the rescue workers. How can anyone not fall on their faces in prayer for these people and in Thanksgiving for our many blessings?
Shalom,
Lucy
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When my cousins and I were little, we actually had a playset of “the armor of God.” Instead of one person getting to wear the whole suit of armor, we each chose a piece of it and shared. LOL. Oddly enough, that plastic suit of armor survived to be passed down to my cousin’s kids. And it’s totally great that you’re Christian-y this early in the morning. I was up for it. I’d had my coffee.
I think it’s important to remember that help and donations and prayers are not only needed during disasters. My husband and I sit down at the end of each year and decide on where we want our donations to go in the following year. It’s a bonding point in our marriage, where we remind each other about what’s important to each of us.
But the main thing that’s on my mind? I’m taking advantage of the open forum here LOL. I’m going to be a mother. Any day now (though the doctor assures me my son is in no particular hurry). And I am PANICKED! I have no idea what to do with a baby! (Laughing at myself here, but I’m still terrified)
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Erin K. says:
January 14th, 2010 at 10:54 am
@Kristin, my husband and I have a saying that got us through our first days as parents. (Truthfully, it’s still getting us through our days.) We figure that people dumber than us have kids every day, and somehow those kids manage to become productive adults, so we’re going to do okay at this parenting thing.
You will too! Some days will be more difficult than others, but you’ll make it through. Best wishes to you!
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Plano Mom says:
January 14th, 2010 at 5:16 pm
@Kristin, The fact that you’re even worried about being a good parent is proof that you will be.
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Rhonda says:
January 14th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
@Kristin, I do believe you will be a great mom, your post confirms it. All mothers panic at the beginning but when you hold your baby, you will wonder why you did.
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Kristin says:
January 14th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
@Kristin, Thank you, all off you.
You’re very sweet, and each said exactly what I needed to hear. Bless you! (And I’m bookmarking this so that, when my child is screaming at 3 AM, I can be reminded)
Ryan, you spoke the other day about influence. You should be proud to see what your blog can do for not only those who read it, but for those who read the comments.
What wonderful souls gather here!
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I always feel terrible when I hear of these disasters.I give to charity and give to every bellringer and cashier who asks for donations during the holidays. Always though,is the real relief that it’s them and not me who needs charity. Am I giving to make points with God?
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Terri A. says:
January 14th, 2010 at 6:53 pm
@kathy, I think you’re giving because you realize that what you have is not yours, but God’s and it’s meant to be shared.
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kathy says:
January 14th, 2010 at 9:31 pm
thank you,Teri. It was bothering me.
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Also if you sounded like Pat,I wouldn’t be here!
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It’s amazing how verses you’ve read and heard over and over can have little impact until one day, they just do. I’ve read and heard Paul’s letter a handful of times but for some reason, reading it on here today makes me feel more fired up to fight some evil than ever before!
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Times like this remind me of two things. First, I’m not God. (Big surprise there, huh?) I can’t save everyone, I’m not responsible for making everything ok, I can’t do it all.
Second, I am His hands and feet. I can’t do it all, but I can do the part He’s asking me to do. My primary job is to seek out what it is He’s asking of me (and then DO it), and trust that He will do the rest. (Kind of like the multiplying of the loaves and fishes.)
My husband and I will be taking a look at our bank account tonight to see what we can give, and then will discuss where to give it. I’m also praying for the various requests I’ve seen on Facebook and on blogs, and for Haiti in general when I hear and see reports.
Also, you do NOT sound like Pat Robertson. You’re providing a little salt and light into a situation that desperately needs it. (As my boss would say, “You get a gold star today! Good job!)
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What’s on my mind? Why I keep putting up with the verbal abuse? the almost daily tears and stress that has become part of our relationship. I hope and pray that it will get better….
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Lisa says:
January 14th, 2010 at 10:03 pm
@chris r, Praying for you Chris.
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My heart is just breaking for the people of Haiti. Sure, sending money and donating blood is great, I just wish there was something MORE that I could do. I honestly think this is God telling me that maybe, just maybe, sitting in an office, auditing companies so that the rich can get richer isn’t necessarily where He wants me. The question is, where DOES He want me?
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Thanks for helping keep your readers GROUNDED to the word of God. Our motto is…EYES ON JESUS!
He is the ONLY one to look to as the world is crumbling. The children break my heart…makes one love and hold their own even more. Praying for Haiti..
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Heavily weighing on my mind is the fact that we OWE taxes this year…and over 1000 to boot. The fact that we are expecting a second child and can’t figure out how we are going to pay for said child’s delivery or my prenatal care, especially when we owe the government money in a few months. I heard about texting to help Haiti, I texted. I am all about helping where I can. The morning sickness is first and foremost my enemy right now and weighs on my mind every time I get sick. Everyone pray for Haiti…they truly need it.
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I read your blog every day and it has been a constant source of encouragement and challenge. I like that. So thank you. Also, an appology for never commenting. I know how I feel about comments on my own blog, so you think that I would be more apt to comment on yours. Part of me feels like little ol’ me would be lost in the mass comments found on your blog. (How selfish!) All of that mumbo jumbo just to tell you that today, your blog gave me exactly what I needed to hear. Again, thank you for that.
Now for a few random thoughts…
Haiti has been on my mind and heart and yet it has been pushed aside as I have been lost in my own frustration. It is refreshing to hear (and be reminded by you) that I have the tools necessary to overcomme the things I perceive as negative in my life, I just have to pick them up and use them, as with everyone else. My “issues” are but small beans compared to the sadness and devastation going on elsewhere. Not only do I need to let all if my junk go because it is forgiven and already resolved in His plan but is nothing compared to the hurt in Haiti.
I have so many things to be thankful for that I need to buck up and be thankful already.
I’m not sure if any of this makes sense, but the bottom line is thank you for being a positive and encouraging person to a complete stranger and also for bringing Haiti to light in my heart and as well as others.
You are a good egg Ryan. A darn good egg.
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“Thanks…needed that. No…not even close to Pat. Thanks for that as well”.
My thoughts exactly!
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I blogged about this today… because I do have feelings about this and reading these blogs makes me feel worse about what I feel.
http://crewzn.blogspot.com/2010/01/brutal-honesty.html
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I just found you yesterday when I was snooping through Pioneer Women’s blog. I’m so glad I did. I just started a business and although I know it takes time to build a customer base, I am feeling hopeless being here all by myself - but I’m not by myself am I? Your post today got my butt in gear for a fight! I will fight the hopeless thoughts that are not of Jesus, knowing that God is with me always and will never forsake me - EVER. Thanks again for the post. You are officially saved as one of my ‘daily checks’.
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Read your blog everyday. Think you are really cool and I love how you are not a scary Pat Robertson type, but a cool down to earth guy. I struggle with my relationship with God. I struggle with the thought that if I give my life to God then I have to become a nun (no offsense to nuns). I feel like I have to live a life that does not include cussing, drinking and just being myself. I don’t really know how to describe how I feel. I want to be a Christian but I want to be me at the same time?? Anyway, you have shown me that Christians can be cool…i mean you drink, you smoke and you have tattoos. I don’t know why the heck I just typed all that…sorry. Just venting I guess. Also…I too have never commented on your blog either. Sorry for that. My prayers for what they are worth are with the people of Haiti. Can not even wrap my mind around what those poor folks are going through. Thanks for letting me vent a bit..
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Plano Mom says:
January 14th, 2010 at 5:34 pm
@Rose, Rose, you sound to me like a wonderful spirit. It also sounds to me like you’ve had the unfortunate experience of someone telling you that you can’t belong because you cuss, drink, and have a certain kind of fun. Don’t feel bad about your relationship with God just because you’ve had a bad relationship with Religion - your relationship is yours, and it is very special, started before you were born. Keep on trying to find a community that appreciates you for where you are now and wants to know the you that God knows!
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Rose says:
January 15th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
@Plano Mom, Thanks for your sweet words!
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Pat Robertson - Ha!! But your point about needing to know the Word - right on! “Great peace have they who love Thy Word and nothing shall cause them to stumble.” Psalm 119:165. If I was living in Haiti, and didn’t know the Word, I wouldn’t have a leg to stand on right now. But thank God!! He doesn’t leave us to suffer alone! He is there. And He wants us to know that! May He fill those people with His love and peace despite the devastation all around them. I’m so glad this is not our home!!
PS Great job on the super fast kitchen remodel, btw!!
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You have been an amazing voice to someone (me) very far away that wasn’t sure if I even wanted to talk to God for awhile. Its nice to know I can check in here and then drop to my knee’s and tell him I am sorry for the doubt!
I am slowly learning, thank you. As others have said thanks for the kick in the butt today so to speak. I, too blogged today and found a certain healing in counting blessings in my own way.
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preach it, man! and no, you don’t sound AT ALL like pat.
my prayer request is for my 15 year old son who has been raised in a Christian home, but who has no interest in God’s Word. doesn’t see it as relevant, and for his parents, who are STUMPED to know how to change this. i feel like we are neglecting our duty as parents in this area, and i’m beyond frustrated.
thanks for letting me share this…
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love wins does not equate with pat robertson.
never can.
Now that we have that straight, that scripture is some of the most powerful. thank you for bringing it into a new light and new situation. THAT is what being a true preacher is about. We needed to hear your message.
I know this comes from my greatest sin (judging judgemental people) however sure sounds to me like Pat Robertson is missing his sword and shoes for sure, and maybe his breastplate is a little beat up.
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Praying for the people in Haiti. Thanks for your words Ryan.
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I’ve read in several places lately, which makes me wonder why, that religion gets in the way of faith sometimes. Be blessed with faith. Find the strength and goodness is all the harshness.
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my heart has been really heavy for all the people of haiti these past few days, and also for the good people doing some of the most difficult missionary work i have merely heard about and can’t imagine doing every day.
i also want to include in my prayers the people who think that haiti does not “deserve” our compassion because they are not all christians, they haven’t done anything for the USA, they are too far away, and they should just start over anyway…sadly, all things i have heard from real people.
i pray that God will open their hearts to the wonderful joy and inevitable pain that comes with caring for others.
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Two things on my mind today :
1. how the heck am i going to wade through all of the changes swirling around me at work; every moment my job seems harder and my life seems more complicated.
2. how stupid it seems to worry about work when people are trying to survive another minute in Haiti.
I switch back and forth between the two constantly.
Time to take a breath and put on some armour. Thanks for the reminder.
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It was a beautiful post…we all need to be reminded!
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Thanks, Ryan. Just thanks.
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I’ve read your blog for quite a while now - lurking, never commenting, but today, with the thoughts of all of the suffering happening in Haiti, I just had to post and say “thank you”. Your post was just perfect and totally non-Pat Robertson. My prayers are with you and your family, and the people of Haiti.
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Great post !
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Ryan - have been reading your blog for awhile now, love what you have to say and how you say it. As far as prayer requests, we have a family friend, actually I feel like he is another son, leaving for Afghanistan soon, please keep him in your prayers
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Ryan, What’s with all the comments. JK looks like your readership has grown threefold. Good for you.
As far as sounding like Pat, not sure what blunder he has gotten caught in saying this time. I believe he also is a child of God and a brother in Christ. He serves a purpose, hopefully not to turn off but to turn on.
We all are under attack, those who know and love the Lord Jesus. The words we say will be twisted and turned to serve the purpose of Satan, but only for a while, for HE is coming back. An God is LORD OF EVERYTHING.
Meanwhile, as you say, stay in the Word, the sword, for it is our ONLY offense against the god of this world.
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Praying for your trip to Kenya - God going before you. Praying for Haiti - a liftingof darkness of all kinds. Looking for my armor - feeling like I’ve misplaced a few pieces lately…
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[...] over to Pastor Ryan’s and leave your prayer request there. He’ll pray for ya’ll [...]
[...] This Is Reverb » I know I’m supposed to be excited about Kenya, but… http://www.thisisreverb.com/2010/01/i-know-im-supposed-to-be-excited-about-kenya-but.html – view page – cached If I were a gambling man, I’d say Haiti has had the worst luck of any country in history. It breaks my heart to see a country that is trying so hard to get itself together get repeatedly struck down by disaster. [...]
[...] AND actual manual labor) to places like Honduras and, in the next coming days or weeks, Kenya. He has links to Compassion International’s disaster relief program, as well as a heartfelt word (and I mean [...]
[...] AND actual manual labor) to places like Honduras and, in the next coming days or weeks, Kenya. He has links to Compassion International’s disaster relief program, as well as a heartfelt word (and I mean [...]