“The king of Israel answered, ‘Tell him: ‘One who puts on his armor should not boast like one who takes it off.’” 1 Kings 20:11

It was last summer when I last rode my 4-wheeler with my son-in-law and grandson. We were in the mountains then, but some mechanical issues forced bringing the ATV home to Florida for repairs. It was time to test it out. So yesterday, the 3 of us headed to the flatland of Florida. For me, as a grandfather, it was a boasting kind of experience.

Having ridden dirt-bikes and 4-wheelers for most of my life, I forget the process of actually learning how. Now, it’s mostly instinct. Riding over dirt trails behind my grandson Cash, I noted his style and confidence as he showed off the skill of an experienced rider. When we hit some deep mud-holes filled with water and he got stuck, I watched him use his experience and wisdom to get unstuck. His dad and I were both proud! He’s 11!

My 4-wheeler is better than his. It has more capability and power because it was built that way! His is 2 wheel drive while mine is 4… and with twice the engine power! A couple of times, after he got stuck and couldn’t get out, his dad would shout further instructions. When that didn’t work, I went behind him and pushed him out. Even then, Cash was learning HOW to teach and to help others.

My father was called to be a Pastor almost immediately after being saved! He had to learn everything the muddy way. Trial and error, along with advice from experienced Pastors, brought lots of pain and failure. But over time, as little muddied successes became instinct, the Prince of Darkness came to know my father as an enemy and warrior. And God and dad pushed me!

I’ve heard stories from Cash. When the subject of riding comes up in the school yard, LOTS of his peers jump into the conversation, boasting like they know more and are better at it. Cash is learning to just ignore hollow boasting, since talk doesn’t prove anything. Only the muddy school of hard knocks and experience makes a true rider.

The same thing happens in the schoolyard of the Church. Over the years, I heard the stories around the house. As frustrations and pain, brought by a challenger of my father’s abilities, were discussed by mom and dad around the house, I overheard. Now, my wife and I have those conversations. It’s amazing how many people think they know more, and aren’t afraid to say so!

I’m proud of my Grandson. He’s learning LOTS of skills in many areas of life. Which is a good thing. Because, as I have learned, Life in Christ on this Earth is a very muddy business. And one needs to be VERY careful how they put their armor on!

Are YOU a true and experienced warrior for Christ?