Our Big Top Life

I am reading Pilgrims Progress to the children. Yesterday I read the part where Christian (main character) was given the Full Armor of God.

the belt of truth
breastplate of righteousness
feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
shield of faith
helmet of salvation
sword of the Spirit

Later in the day, I received a call from an unknown number. I was surprised to hear the North Suburban Bulldog's President on the other end (where Ty plays football). He asked if I had a minute and then continued. He shared how God had placed Carter on his heart and several parents have expressed concern. He wanted an update on his health and wanted us to know they were praying. He then said he was going to call practice early and gather all the teams together in a big huddle. He was going to teach them about the Full Armor of God using football equipment. He wanted Carter to be right beside him during this time.

How cool is that people? I had just read this passage to my children earlier in the day. I told that to coach and he said, "Well, that's confirmation then!" I used this opportunity to thank him for all he stands for, for his boldness on the field, and for all the work he is doing. I could not be more grateful to be a part of NSB. We just googled Pop Warner Associations and happened to find this one. Totally God! In Jax alone, there are so many football associations I couldn't name them all. I don't know of one that seeks to glorify God and make Him known. There is a stark contrast. The fact that we have lost every game doesn't bother me a bit. My child is learning more than how to play football. He is being encouraged and challenged to use the football field as a mission field. This will serve him all of life!

After the large huddle, a group of parents and coaches gathered around Carter, placed hands on him, and prayed. I left so refreshed! Not only did the prayer time minister to me, but all during practice another parent was pouring TRUTH into me. She kept saying that Carter had been so heavy on her heart. I hadn't even met her before last night.

As time passes, it is made more and more clear that the LORD truly has directed all of our steps. He has gone before us. Colorado is where we are supposed to be right now, in this season of our lives. Yes, I miss family. I miss friends. But, I'm trusting and believing God has great things for us. He has already revealed some of those.


Ephesians 6:11-18
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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.