It’s funny when you want to do something, we watch the weather so much. Do you have to drive over a pass in the winter? Do you want to go skiing? How about a walk? Plant grass? Go for a hike? Work in the yard? Take your dog outside?
My wife heard a statement awhile back that goes like this: “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”
I think we’ve found that to be true. She and I walk every day. We’ve done this for years. We call it our daily date, because once-a-week-date-night isn’t enough to keep us connected and on track. So we walk. Most every day.
After doing this for years, we finally bought some rain pants. We used to walk rain or shine and come home soaked. Now the rain pants, (and already had good coats) keep us dry. Oh, our hands get wet, sometimes our faces, but generally we are just fine.
The one thing that doesn’t seem to do well is shoes. Once, we bought some shoes that I was told were great for water. I assumed that meant keeping the water out. Doh! Nope. They were great for when you are on a boat and they drain the water out of them so they don’t slosh around. They are called “Drainer” for a reason. Nope, these didn’t work so well in the context of walking in the rain and snow.
I finally broke down and bought some waterproof hiking boots. These were awesome. While Gail got wet feet, I was no completely dry. The problem with these waterproof shoes (I’m on my third or fourth pair), they don’t last very long. I mean, I’ve had my coat and pants for years now. If the water proofing could last as long as the shoes do, I’d be fine. They don’t. I just ordered some more yesterday. This time, a different brand. We’ll see.
But it’s funny, when we stay home, we don’t much care what the weather is doing. When we want to go out in our cars or for exercise, we end up with a watchful eye on the ever transient weather.
There’s an old song that goes like this: “This world is not my home, I’m just a passing through. If heaven’s not my home, then Lord what would I do?”
It leaves the idea that we are a wandering stranger in this land. Maybe we should be watching the weather and getting prepared for the worst weather yet to come.
Matthew 24:24 (ESV)
For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.
Mark 13:22–23 (ESV)
For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.
The bad weather is coming. Do you have good clothing for it?
Ephesians 6:10–18 (ESV)
The Whole Armor of God
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,
