Girdle up!

Anyone still wearing a girdle?

According to the Bible, you should be.

A belt in biblical times was often called a girdle. Just like today, a girdle was essential in keeping clothing in place, for both men and women.

This belt was practical, serving as a way to keep everyday life in order and for those who might be warriors it was essential for carrying equipment.

A spiritual application today of the belt of truth comes from the armor of God in Ephesians, v. 14 (KJV) “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth.”

This encourages us to stand strong in our faith which is supported by the truth of God’s Word.

We need the belt of God’s truth to provide order and direction for us when sharing with others.

Now, disciple, cinch up your girdle and step out into the world.

3 Questions for now

The belt of truth helps you keep life, and your message of truth to others, in check.

And many you know are struggling with checks and balances in their lives.

Here are three questions that could help you start a conversation:

• Do you believe that everyone has the potential to do good in the world?

• Do you believe that there’s a "right" way to live? What does that look like?

• How would you feel about learning more about what the Bible teaches in a group setting or with a friend?

Ok, technically that’s four questions, but you can handle the extra one.

Cinch up that belt and when the opportunity arises, ask one of these questions and follow the Lord’s lead.

Be kind. Love them. Be bold.

The world needs the truth.

Shawn’s noodling rant:

(“Noodling” is a term I swiped from my mentor. The meaning is to “ponder” or “think deeply about” a topic that God is challenging us with through scripture or the Holy Spirit, or both.)

Belt of truth keeps you true to your path

Have you ever forgotten your belt before heading out to work or church?

It’s a discombobulating situation. You’re constantly pulling up your pants (or adjusting your dress) at every turn and you can’t get comfortable, and you feel like everyone is staring at you and you’re afraid of a wardrobe malfunction where everyone suddenly sees the duck prints on your undergarments.

A belt is essential to keeping your wardrobe in order.

In ancient times it wasn’t just about your wardrobe. A belt was needed for support to carry weapons and even supplies such as food or water.

You couldn’t be “true” to your task at hand without a strong, secure belt which may have been referred to as a girdle.

With a supportive belt a person was ready, had more strength and felt a sense of authority for whatever task lay ahead.

God’s word highlights the significance of the “belt of truth” in Ephesians 6:14 as part of the whole armor of God.

Truth through God’s word – the readiness, strength and authority of God’s word – provides believers with a powerful defense against evil in this world and a powerful offensive tool in sharing the Gospel of Jesus to unbelievers.

God’s truth, when worn properly, prepares us, gives us strength and provides authority to step out into the world and deliver His message.

As Jesus declared in John 4:16 (KJV) – “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Now, disciple, girdle up!