Weathered Warrior
- Abbey Parsley
- Aug 24
- 4 min read
“I am a weathered warrior, having suited up for battle many times. And now, together, we fight.”
“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 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.” Ephesians 6:13-18
You know that news that is just blind siding? The sort that hits you like a sudden, unexpected punch to the gut, leaving you breathless and disoriented?
My dear friend has stage 4 cancer. We thought she was fighting allergies, or something very treatable. So, when she told me the news of her diagnosis, it knocked the wind out of me. I was stunned and devastated. She’s a mama to four boys, a grandmother of two sweet babes, a wife, a sister, a daughter… she can’t have cancer.
With tears running down my cheeks, I put on my armor, this being a battle I don’t want to have to fight for my friend. There’s dings and notches in this armor from the past, from situations when I’ve been in battle for myself, and on behalf of others. I am a weathered warrior, having suited up for battle many times. And now, together, we fight. We put on each piece of God’s armor for this battle because we know the power it holds. There are six pieces, and without one, we aren’t protected.
As I ponder this thought, we, as mamas, are truly weathered warriors for the kingdom, yes? Maybe you’re suited up for a friend that has cancer too. Maybe you have a child with special needs. Maybe you’re going through a divorce. Maybe your marriage is rocky. Maybe you had a root canal (me, it was me). Maybe there is family tension in your life. Maybe you're raising littles that are so acutely needy or teenagers that require constant direction. This armor isn’t exclusive, and not a one time event. We need it in everyday life.
Stay tuned, this week we’ll learn about each piece and how to apply it to our lives.
Faith Follow-Through:
This week, take some time to grow in motherhood and faith:
Monday:
The Belt of Truth represents God’s truth - What you know to be true.
Application: Study God’s Word. Go to scripture on specific topics
The Breastplate of Righteousness protects the heart from sin - living a righteous life, obeying God’s commandments, being made right.
Application: Seek instruction from God. Is there an area of your life that you struggle with obedience? Obedience allows God’s plan to unfold in your life.
Tuesday:
The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace is being ready to spread the good news of the gospel, and to stand firm in faith, even among conflict.
Application: You have a very unique place in the kingdom, and the work you do for God. Ask Him, daily, how He wants to use you. Set your security and identity in Christ by surrounding yourself with truths about this.
The Shield of Faith is trust in God and His promises.
Application: Ask God to increase your faith. Talk to other believers and ask them to share their testimonies with you.
Wednesday:
The Helmet of Salvation protects the mind from doubt, fear, and negative thoughts. (I struggle with this one most!)
Application: Read Colossians 3:2, and Romans 12:2
The Sword of the Spirit is the word of God - both a defensive and offensive weapon.
Application: You guys, Jesus used this when the devil tempted Him in the wilderness. That’s enough for me! Read Luke 4:1-13.
Thursday:
Listen to Surrounded [Fight My Battles]
When I hear this song, I picture in my mind’s eye me walking into a room, very worn and weary. I take my armor off and sit down at the table He has prepared for me, and He tends to me. He knows I’m battling, that I’m seeking Him. My enemies are there, but it doesn’t matter because He’s there. And I’m reminded of all He has done. Today, while you listen to this song, lift gratitude for what He’s done, what He’s going to do, and how He battles with you. .
