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 has been 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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