Thank You for taking the Challenge! Why I gear up.

Because of my battles, and I’ve had many, surgeries, cancer, health issues with the “unknown”, being a dad, a husband, working in business and within the department of defense, struggling with my human nature of pride, fear, invincibility, often being selfish and wanting things “my way”, I have learned to turn to God through faith. My struggles and battles have taught me to develop a stronger faith in Christ For strength and clarity and compassion for others. I have discovered that when I am weak I am actually stronger through Christ. To obtain Gods strength and have the energy and faith to face each day and to maintain a life as a Christian, I have learned to be very intentional in reading Gods Word daily, listen to praise music, praying and sharing the Gospel with others. I pray often to create relationship with God and through my prayers and reading my Bible daily I gain strength and confidence through Christ which has been key in fighting my battles. I know that evil wants me defeated, discouraged and down. I know that I get attacked and God allows these life issues, but I refuse to give in. I refuse listen to the ”whispers”, the temptations.. the desires to give up.. to let my emotions take over and be a victim to fear and anxiety... and the many temptations that come my way. I’m far from a perfect person, but I do know that I am saved by grace and Christs sacrifice, and that he loves and cares about me. So I read the Word daily.. memorize the scriptures and recite them when tempted and engaged in a physical or mental battle. I start each day by putting my Armor of God coin in my pocket. It helps remind me to start with a devotional read and to pray.. I pray for others and family.. and it seems that when I pray I often complain to God.. I lay it all out as I believe that he wants to know my heart and hear me. Throughout the day as I feel that coin in my front pocket, Im reminded that God cares for me and gives what I need exactly when I need it. The coin reminds me that through Christ as my Savior, God loves me and no matter what the battle that day, I’m geared up and confident wearing the armor of God as described in Ephesians 6. The coin helps me be prepared.. and I am very grateful For Gods provision! Thank you for taking the challenge! Gear up! Put on the armor, carry or display your coin and pray always and be an encouragement to others! If you see someone who is hurting, in a battle, give them a coin and have them take the armor of God Challenge! - don