The King Is ComingShembull

Heirs

Do we use all the resources God has made available to us? As heirs of the Kingdom, we have access to the vast power and protection of Christ. Yet we may only be tapping the surface. It’s easy—especially at Christmastime—to keep Jesus in the cradle as a vulnerable baby with bad guys like Herod chasing him, and God protecting him. But he is also an invincible warrior King, set to return in glory to create his eternal kingdom here on earth. We have access to this aspect of Christ, as well—and that includes the family armor.

In Ephesians 6, we are told to fasten the belt of truth, put on the breastplate of righteousness and shoes to proclaim the gospel of peace. We are to take up the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit (the Word of God). But do we bother to armor up every day? Or do we go out half-dressed?

Sadly, we need to defend against our “me-centric” world, and what it says we are entitled to have and want. In First Samuel 18:4–5, Jonathan willingly gives up his right as earthly heir to the kingdom of Israel under his father King Saul, in favor of David. “Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, including his sword and his bow and his belt.” Jonathan recognized David as God’s choice. He chose to use his armor in service to David. Compare Jonathan’s reaction to King Herod’s. Herod tried to kill Jesus. But he was fighting not simply a baby, but the King of kings.

REFLECT

Really consider how you picture Christ.

RESPOND

• Practice putting on the armor of God this week. Which piece fits the easiest? Which is the most difficult for you?
• How can we use the armor of God to be more like Jonathan and push aside our own interests, for those of our King?