There's been some talk lately about the state of Christian publishing, and how things are either grand, or grinding to a halt.
I may be a bit Pollyanna-ish on this, but here's my take.
And as always, for my strength, I look to my faith.
One of my favourite phrases has always been "Be strong in the Lord and the power of His might."
So, let's look at that passage in Ephesians, shall we?
But first, imagine you're actually there...in Ephesus....sniffing the pink oleander...
You just checked some scrolls out of the library...
Now you're waiting for Paul of Tarsus to come and speak...
Eph 6:10-17 (NIV) ...Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled round your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Now, read that again, and tell me what armour is missing?
Go ahead, I'll wait.
Figure it out yet?
There's no mention of what shall cover our backs, what piece of protection will the armour makers have forged to save our spines and necks?
Why?
Perhaps, and this is a thought I heard a while ago, and I can't remember where, but maybe...
Maybe???
God never meant for us to turn our backs on the battle.
Read that again.
When does God realize He's losing?
When does He sound the retreat for His kingdom?
Never.
