Armorbearers International

Matthew 13:21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.

Have you seen a ship wreck lately? It's a painful sight to see. Usually the ship is all busted up. Its contents, crew members and passengers are strewn all over the place. Some are floating in the water nearby; suitcases, food, animals all float by. Usually, the ship has run aground or busted on the rocks. The point is the ship can not go any further. It must be repaired or even reborn before it can sail again.

In a similar way, our faith is like a ship sailing on the seas of life. And like its natural counterpart, our faith ship can be wrecked by storms, troubles and even something or someone cutting in on our path to serving in God's Kingdom and ultimately fulfilling God's purpose and destiny in our life.

The Galatian writer said to the Galatian Church and now us, “You were running the race nobly. Who has (hindered and stopped you) from heeding and following the truth? (Galatians 5:7) Varn and I have seen and heard of many shipwrecks lately. Even more are headed for a shipwreck, if they don't heed the Word of God. So, the Holy Spirit put on Varn's heart to write to you about it. Hopefully, it will change someone's course after reading this little article.

To be honest, I came perilously close to shipwreck a number of years ago. I was so hurt and offended by some of my Christian brothers and sisters. By the grace of God, I avoided my faith's shipwreck by following close after the truth. I had to forgive and bless and keep on forgiving and blessing.

Remember the Story of the Sowers word in Matthew 13 and Mark 4 where it says in part, “...when trouble or persecution arises for the word's sake, immediately they stumble.” In that season, I had to choose over and over again to accept the word of forgiveness and release my offenders, so I would not stumble or shipwreck in my faith.

If you are in the middle of persecutions or troubles that have risen out of seemingly nowhere, consider this it may be because of the Word of God active in your life. Meaning it may be because you decided to serve wholeheartedly as the leader God has called you to become. Or because you decided to come alongside your leader and help no matter who acknowledges what you're doing. Wait, one more scenario maybe you decided to walk in love regardless of those trying to offend you. Follow our Lord's instructions, accept the Word, obey it and bear the good fruit of love, forgiveness and longsuffering.

Varn Brown

Are you hindered by the attack and persecution from the enemy because of your service unto the Lord. I'm discussing this topic because it has played a major role in my life and my Christian walk through the years. And as Earma has said, we've seen so many shipwreck and headed for shipwreck lately.

For the last few years every time I received an assignment from my leader, I either have a limp or the enemy brings an attack. I began to notice it several years ago; I was assigned to clear a fence row so a fence could be put up for cows on our church's ranch property. The job was considered somewhat hard but normal for me.

To get it done, I had to set a fast pace and a high standard with the men to finish the job on time. There lies the beginning of the problem; the men didn’t like the standard. I can hear you say, hmmm. As a leader we have to make decisions that will be challenged. In that challenge, sometimes difficulties arise.

As a leader it may make us feel attacked, unliked or unappreciated. Our enemy will try to use this to make us quiet or withdraw. But the Lord wants to use it to sharpen us; you know the Scripture, “Iron sharpens iron,” that's what the Lord wants. (Proverbs 27:17)

I see it clearly. Now when ever I am assigned a task I gear up I put on my spiritual armor. I make sure my feet are shod with peace and my loins are girded with truth. I put on the belt of truth, breast plate of righteousness, and the helmet of salvation.

This is what we all must do to prepare for spiritual battle. Remember, we are all soldiers in God's army. These light afflictions are our lion and bear. The Lord is preparing us for our Goliath. He wants us ready to slay the enemy and cut off his head.

So I encourage you to not be afraid nor be dismayed for the Lord, our God is with you. Through Christ, we are strong and mighty, mighty in battle. Instead of being dismayed, be encouraged that the Lord is using this situation to qualify you and take you to the next level.

Serving faithful in His Kingdom,

Varn & Earma Brown