There are plenty of mandates to “mask up” during this pandemic. But for God’s people, it is even more important to armor up. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he states, “Put on the full armor 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.” In what area of the spiritual disciplines do you need to make more of an effort this year? Prayer? Study? Stewardship? Meditation on the Word? Service? Unless we are armed, we will never be any good on the spiritual battlefield.

II Chronicles 16:9 says, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” King Asa had relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD, even though he had plenty of evidence that God would be his supply in all situations. Even good, God-fearing people waver in their faith. Resolve this year to place your full commitment to the cause of Christ in your calling. Ask the LORD to show you where you have not been fully committed and give your all to Him.

Paul’s admonition in Hebrews 12:1 is to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” From the pandemic to the election and everything in between, social media and television have consumed more eye-straining hours than can be counted. If we’re going to be useful to the LORD in this current season, we have to focus our minds on Him and His Word. Because we are Christ’s ambassadors in our schools, we must watch what we see, sow, and speak.