March 24 & 25, 2007

Yesterday we talked about the concept of “missional” from the perspective of a soldier being assigned a mission. If you’ve ever been around any Marines, they consistently work out and they train so that they will be ready to meet the challenge when sent on a mission.

So it is with us as a missional community. We need to be constantly training…working out…so that we are fit for the battle. That is what Paul is writing to Timothy:

“Therefore, if a man cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel of honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” (II Tim 2:21)

Have you thought about what it means to be prepared for every good work? I’m afraid most Christians are “flabby” and out of shape when it comes to being prepared to engage the enemy. What does our “boot camp” look like?

We should begin early every morning in prayer and in a quiet time with the Lord…oh, I hear you, “Early???” I did say “boot camp” didn’t I? And yes, early…all the great saints in history had their quality quiet time early in the morning. That is when we dress…literally put on the whole armor of God

(See Ephesians 6:14-17). Only then are we ready…prepared…vessels of honor…for the mission.

When we miss our morning “workout”, whether we recognize it or not, we are always less prepared for the events and divine appointments of the day.

This is a quote from my own journal just this week. Speaking of my quiet time…”You (God) never demand this of me, but always wait patiently at our appointed place while I wander aimlessly, replacing time with You with shabby substitutes and my soul has cried out to restore this time together. Lord, I need this time in Your presence. Please help me to make this my highest priority each day.”

Whether we are conscious of it or not, without our daily (morning?) workout, we are starving our souls and giving ground to the enemy.

Are you faithfully preparing yourself “for every good work” each day? Are you doing your spiritual exercises and putting on the whole armor of God each day that you might be equipped for your mission?

Written By:  Jim Kinney