Get Your Gospel Shoes On!

It is essential in the Christian life that we not only hold, but also gain ground. This is done with proper footwear, which was as important to a Roman soldier's armor as the shield and breastplate.

After telling us about the utility belt and breastplate, Paul says that you should have 'your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace" (Ephesians 6:15 KJV).

When we go look at shoes, we might put style at the top of the list. Hands down, my favorite shoe is the Converse Chuck Taylor. I pretty much live in them, despite the fact that they have little to no arch support.

But the shoes of the Roman soldier had to be functional. They would have three qualities:

• They had to have good grip, giving traction and solid footing.
• They also had to be tough to protect the foot from spikes or sharp rocks.
• Finally, they needed to be light, giving the soldier the mobility to cross 100 yards of open field in a minute.

But what exactly is this referring to, in the spiritual battle?