out of the ordinary | the garments

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. For the next days we'll be looking at garments. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. Proverbs 31;17, KJV

“Gird your loins” refers to applying a band of material, cord or leather over a wearer’s garments to prevent the robes interfering with movement. The wearer would take their long clothes and tuck them into the belt in order to be ready for service, battle, action. And while this phrase might normally appear in reference to men, we find it slap bang in the middle of the passage in Proverbs concerning a virtuous and noble woman.

Some of the translations water the phrase down talking about her being an ”energetic, strong worker” but that is not the intention of the original Hebrew. This woman girds herself. She is ready for anything.

Arguably, this should be the position for all of us who are in Christ. In the New Testament we might be taken to the instructions to put on the full armour of God so we can stand again the devil’s schemes. In the Old Testament we might be reminded of the truth that a cord of three strands is not easily broken. Standing with another and with the Lord is powerful.

Whatever your preferred Bible translation, don’t miss the commendation of the Lord to those who are prepared, aware of the times, alert to his presence, ready to move as he instructs. Gird your loins!

Let’s pray:
Lord, I am ready, make me ready. Help me to discern and run after the things that matter most to you. May all I am and all I do today advance your Kingdom and bring you glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.