We talk about the Shoes of Peace, but let’s not forget they are also for “the preparation of the gospel of peace.” They are for readiness. But that’s the next post. This one is about the peace part, which does connect.
One of the remarkable things about the physical parallel for these shoes is the spikes on the bottom. These spikes on the soles are to dig into the ground so the wearer does not slip. These shoes were made to be used on difficult terrain. Let me say it again, these shoes were MADE for difficult terrain!
As believers in Christ, we are going to walk on some difficult terrain. There’s no way around it. But we can walk over this terrain in the peace of knowing we won’t slip and fall. God’s peace will guide and guard our steps.
As an individual it is important not to slip. When you’re in an army it is even more important that no one slips. When you are advancing in a line, it must be tight and strong. We as believers in Christ are to stand firm in a formation against the enemy, Satan.
Let’s look at this in the context of a church body. In a church body, the members need to be at peace with each other in order to work as a unit. We are to love each other, have patience, and bear with each other (Ephesians 4:1-3; Colossians 3:12-15). In a church body, if someone is not wearing their Peace Shoes or any other piece of their armor, they will slip. They will get hurt. This will cause a hole in the line that leaves an opening for the enemy to get in and cause damage.
Wear your Peace Shoes. Wear the rest of your armor. Stand your ground. Be at peace with God. Have peace in your life because of God. Stand by and be at peace with your brothers and sisters in Christ. Hold the line together so there are no holes in it.