“And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace” (Eph. 6:15 NKJ).
The ability to remain on one’s feet during battle requires good footing, strong ankle action, and proper footwear. This expression, “…having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace,” says a lot.
The original Greek word translated preparation in this verse is hetoimasia (het-oy-mas-ee’-ah). It is defined as “being ready to take action at a moment’s notice.”
This is a word that is both defensive and offensive. In Roman times, the warrior’s sandal was equipped with a cleat-like sole for sure traction and fast mobility. Taking the gospel to the ends of the earth stirs up opposition. The enemy’s strategy is to aim his artillery at us to stop our forward progress. Being shod with the warrior’s sandal of readiness will assure us of the steadfast footing and nimble agility necessary to dodge Satan’s missiles.
We can also launch an offensive when shod with this footwear. The New Testament usage of the word hetoimasia implies a readiness for good works (Titus 3:1), a readiness for witnessing (1 Pet. 3:15), and a readiness for the Lord’s return (Matt. 24:44).
Such readiness imparts to us a distinctive character and nature because at any moment we expect a triumphant return of our Commander-in-Chief. Readiness also keeps us open to the demands of the action necessary to reach our goal of world dominion.
Shod with the right kind of combat sandal we are able to defend ourselves. We are also equipped to launch a worldwide invasion of the kingdom of darkness.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.