The Armor of Faith
“Be Strong in the Lord and his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God.”
– Ephesians [6:10]-11
AN EVERYDAY WOMAN FULLY ARMED WITH FAITH WHO DEFEATED A STRONG MAN.
Patricia Williams worked selling time-shares for one of the largest time-share companies. Many of these companies use high-pressure sales tactics and often sell the time-shares at prices much higher than their market value. Patricia’s company was no different. However, she needed a job and she thought this was the best she could find. Over time she noticed illegal sales practices and began to report them anonymously on the company hotline. Unfortunately, her input was not kept anonymous and she was fired.
“Finally, after four years of fighting, the jury hearing her case found in her favor. She was awarded $20 million dollars in damages.”
Patricia filed a whistle-blower lawsuit claiming she was fired only because she had reported these illegal tactics. When Patricia resisted accepting a small settlement from the company, the company fought back. For four years Patricia struggled financially. Often low on money, she resorted to eating out of her mother’s pantry. The only work she could get paid little. As the suit dragged on, her problems grew. Thankfully, her attorney hung in with her and pressed forward. Finally, after four years of fighting, the jury hearing her case found in her favor. She was awarded $20 million dollars in damages. The company was admonished; many former associates had testified in her defense.
“Her faith in God sustained her against a more powerful foe.”
When asked why she didn’t settle, Patricia replied, “It’s been a long battle. But I had faith every minute that if I got in front of a jury of twelve unbiased people and an unbiased judge, they would see the truth.” Her faith in God sustained her against a more powerful foe. Jesus describes this faith as being fully armed. Our foes will persist in their attacks and oftentimes seem insurmountable. Times can get tough. But giving in to pressure reduces our Christian armor and allows our foes to overcome us.
“Having a powerful set of armor created by faith in God, surrounds us with protection.”
Many of us hit these times of stress, perhaps not as severe as Patricia’s. When we work in the marketplace, we are exposed. Temptation and schemes surround us daily. Having a powerful set of armor created by faith in God, surrounds us with protection. Very often in these battles there is a short-term loss, followed by a period of doubt. Holding firm when we know we are right becomes our rudder. A life well lived, that includes faith, doesn’t mean we won’t be tested. But it provides us with protection for these times. A life that hasn’t had its faith tested is long overdue.
Blessings, until next time,
Bruce L. Hartman
PARTING THOUGHTS
What life experience have we had that tested our faith?
Did we settle or hold fast?
How do we react when tempted to give in?
