As my son was growing
up, we taught him to wear a helmet when participating in activities that could
involve serious falls. Recreation often presents the necessity of making
this wise choice. Bicycling, roller-blading and snowmobiling all come to
mind as sports that should involve a well-constructed helmet. The body
can endure scrapes, cuts and even broken bones that may result from an
accident. A brain injury can be far more serious, even life threatening. The
head should be guarded with the utmost care.
We are told to guard our
minds and “take the helmet of salvation” (Ephesians 6:17a
ESV) Salvation was provided for us by the death and resurrection of Jesus
Christ. We receive it as gift when asking Jesus to be Lord of our lives.
So how can we take what we already have? Salvation encompasses our
entire life, so why is it a helmet that only protects the head? And, how
can we put it on?
Webster’s dictionary
provided three primary definitions for the word, salvation. (1:
deliverance from the power and effects of sin. 2: liberation
from ignorance or illusion. 3: preservation from destruction
or failure.) All three combined provide a picture of what Biblical
salvation is. In Jesus we have received the power that delivers us from
sin and death.” For the law of the Spirit of life [which is] in Christ
Jesus [the law of our new being] has freed me from the law of sin and of death.” (Romans
8:2 AMP) Knowledge of that salvation will liberate us. “My people
are destroyed for lack of knowledge;” (Hosea 4:6a
AMP) And, we are preserved by acceptance of this gift of salvation. “But
to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the authority
(power, privilege, right) to become the children of God, that is, to those who
believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name“ (John 1:12
AMP)
Salvation brings us
eternal life. Eternal refers not only to the unending quality that
promises heaven after this life on earth. Eternal also refers to a
quality of life. Jesus said, “The thief comes only in order to
steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life,
and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”
(John 10:10 AMP) This life (Greek word, sozo) encompasses fullness
here on earth as well as a full life after our bodies die. It
includes this truth, “the kingdom of God is not a matter of [getting
the] food and drink [one likes], but instead it is righteousness (that state
which makes a person acceptable to God) and [heart] peace and joy in the Holy
Spirit.” (Romans 14:17 AMP) We
have access to God given righteousness, peace and joy in every part of our
life, both here and in heaven.
A helmet is placed on
the head to protect it. The helmet of
salvation will protect our mind from the enemy’s lies. We must learn from God, all He has provided
for us in the salvation Jesus paid for by His death. By studying and asking God for His revelation
we can gain greater understanding of the fullness He has provided. “Guide me in Your
truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the
God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly]
all the day long.” (Psalm 25:5 AMP) He will guide us when we rely on Him and acknowledge
our need. Only God’s salvation is
profitable to us. “Oh, grant us help
against the foe, for vain is the salvation of man!” (Psalm 62:11 AMP) We can trust, learn from and enjoy the great
salvation He has given us.
Activities that
involve potential danger do not have to be avoided. Many recreational
activities are quite enjoyable. With the simple precaution of wearing
your helmet, you can be truly free to enjoy life to its fullest. As you
live out your spiritual walk, you will encounter both times of battle and of
refreshment. Be careful to keep that helmet of salvation on
tightly. It will guard you from the attacks you face as well as unexpected
mishaps as you walk in the fullness of the eternal life Jesus died to provide
for you.
With your helmet
placed tightly over your head go out at enjoy your life, everyday. Whether in the heat of battle or the peak of
fun, you can experience that abundant (sozo) life. Experience and enjoy your life today!
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