Author name: Pastor Burns

Ephesians 6:15 “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace” A soldier doesn’t wait until the battle to put on his boots. He’s ready before the trumpet sounds. The Roman soldier’s footwear gave him stability on rough terrain, protected his steps, and helped him stand firm when everything around him shook.…

2 Samuel 23:12 “But he stood in the midst of the ground, and defended it, and slew the Philistines: and the Lord wrought a great victory.” Sometimes the fiercest battles are over things that seem small— a teenager’s heart, your morning prayer time, or a field of lentils. To others, it’s just a patch of

Romans 5:1 “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Before the Gospel ever prepares us to go, it anchors us to stand. Peace isn’t just a warm feeling—it’s a weapon in spiritual warfare. When the enemy comes with accusations, fear, and doubt, the believer who stands firm

Ephesians 6:15 “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.” The Roman soldier’s boots weren’t for comfort—they were for combat. With hobnailed soles and ankle protection, they gave him the grip to hold ground and the readiness to march forward. Paul says we are to have our spiritual feet shod with

Ephesians 6:13 “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” There’s something powerful about standing your ground—especially when everyone else is running away. Shammah, one of David’s mighty men, understood this when he stood in a field

2 Timothy 4:8 “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” When we think of crowns, we picture thrones and fanfare. But Paul was thinking about

2 Timothy 3:10 “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience.” Paul told Timothy, “You’ve seen how I live.” He didn’t just pass down sermons—he passed down a life. That’s legacy. Your grandkids or neighbors may not listen to a Bible lesson right now, but they’re always watching

2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Starting is easy—just ask anyone with a New Year’s resolution. But finishing? That’s where character is forged. Paul wasn’t just reflecting on his past; he was rejoicing in his perseverance. He had stayed the course, even

Titus 2:2–4 “That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness… that they may teach the young…” Paul didn’t just finish well—he passed something on. That’s what legacy is all about. Christians, your “lap” in this race

1 Corinthians 4:2 “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” Not famous. Not flashy. Not always remembered. Just faithful. That’s what God is looking for. The world may never know your name, but heaven does. Paul’s reward wasn’t based on applause, but on allegiance—to the Gospel, to truth, to Jesus.