Recall the story of the two lumberjacks. They both went out to cut trees for a full day. The first worked straight through the day without stopping, stacking pile upon pile of wood. While he worked, he saw the other lumberjack stop and take breaks throughout the day.
“What a lazy worker” He thought. “How can he expect to do much work when he keeps stopping time and time again.”
But when the day ended, the second lumberjack had cut substantially more wood. He also still appeared full of strength and vigor, while the first lumberjack was dragging on his feet.
The difference, of course, is that the second lumberjack took time to sharpen his axe and catch his breath and renew his strength throughout the day.
As believers, we are called to take up “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17b)
Are we taking the time to stop and make sure our sword is sharp? Are we taking proper rest to renew our strength? We sharpen our sword by knowing the word of the Lord. We know His word by reading the Bible and hearing His voice.
Our times of prayer and reading the Bible both refresh our strength while sharpening the tool and weapon in our hands. In all times and seasons, nothing is more important to our walks and lives than being fully equipped and prepared for what lies before us.
It is the Holy Spirit that equips, prepares, helps, and teaches us as we partner with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in their plan and strategy for the nations. Let us lean on Him and take the time to sharpen our swords.
Jesus, we thank you for your grace and power in our lives. Help us to spend the time resting and sharpening our swords so that we can be ready. Amen.
Pastor Ken