A Lesson From My Husband's Tool Belt and Why I Buckle My Belt Everyday
Posted: Wednesday, January 09, 2008
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
Over the years, I have learned many useful things from my husband. I have learned that the dis
hes belong on the right side of the sink and not the left - this way, you do not have to cross over the side you were just on to put the dishes in the dishwasher. (Duh.)
I have learned that the dishes should face to the left inside of the dishwasher and not to the right - this way the water hits the front of the dishes and not the back. (Duh.)
If you ask him, he will tell you that the most important thing I have learned from him is to never eat a sandwich before you put everything away. ( Double Duh.)
I guess by now you have learned that we do not think the same when it comes to the little things, but before I go on to the important stuff, I think it is worth mentioning that I have won this battle. The secret is: do it wrong long enough and he will do it for you!
But seriously, I have learned a valuable lesson from my husband, well not him specifically, but from his tool belt.
It happened a while back when I went to work with him. When we arrived at the job site, the first thing he did was put on his tool belt.
I immediately thought, I'm glad I don't have to wear that bulky thing all day long!
"Doesn't that thing bother you and weigh you down?" I asked. "No, I don't even feel it, but I gotta have it on, I can't function without it - it's a part of me."
I guess if you are a carpenter, it makes perfect sense. I noticed his belt was loaded with nails, screws, a tape measure, chalk, a pry-bar, a straight edge, a mini - level and some other cool looking tools.
Throughout the day I watched him work - I mean, as I was working along side of him, I noticed how useful his tool belt was:
When he needed to hammer something, he pulled out his hammer; when he needed to draw a line, he pulled out his straight edge....
Being the forgetful person I am, I was amazed that he knew where everything was. He didn't look down once.
As it often does, my mind began to wander. A Scripture came to mind - while I was working hard, mind you...
"Stand Firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist.... Ephesians 6:14 NIV
It was one of those moments when I said, "Now I get!" Once again, I see how practical the word of God is.
"With the belt of truth buckled." Hhmm, it means so much more to me now. In order to buckle my belt, I must first put it on. (Duh.)
As a carpenter puts on his or her tool belt before they get started for the day, so we Christians must put on our belt of truth before we start our day.
"...with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one..." Ephesians 6:16 NIV
Loaded in my belt of truth are: Scriptures, my testimony, and my favorite praise songs. They are tucked away - each in its place ready for use at a moments notice.
When the enemy comes at me with my past, I immediately quote 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away; behold, all things become new."
Fizzle, fizzle, out goes that flaming arrow!
When the enemy comes to say "After all you do for God, He couldn't even give you what you wanted?" Out comes my favorite praise song, "You did not wait for me to cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me, and I'm forever grateful..."
Fizzle, Fizzle, out goes another flame!
Wow! What a concept! The Christian armor really does work!!
Since then, I have chosen to buckle my belt everyday; it is a part of me. As a result, I am dressed and ready for whatever the father of lies throws my way! ( Eph 6:14-18.)
Heavenly Father, thank you for making your word so practical.
And Thank you for my wonderful husband, I really have learned
a lot from him.
Love, your forever grateful daughter - Teresa
This Article has been viewed 1,269 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
Top-level comments on this article: (10 total)I found the analogy between your hubby's tool belt and the scripture references very interesting, if a bit trite. It is a good mnemonic device, I suppose, but a true Christian doesn't need such a literal method.
Hi Anon, I suppose we all learn differently, but I see Jesus using analogies all the time, this tells me that Jesus thought people who wanted to be true Christians related to analogies. Just about evrything He taught the disciples - who were true Christians (except Judas), he taught by way of analogy. I agree there are times when straight doctrine will do, but sometimes a life lesson brings God's word to life. If it helps one person who is a brand new Christian to understand Scripture, I'll be trite anyday. If it worked for Him, I figure it doesn't hurt to use them. I respect your opinion and I thank you for taking the time read and comment. Blessings to you, Teresa
hi teresa, i'm not into scripture, but you used it in a way that was not overwhelming. i like your story, it was a nice look into your life. i'm happy for you and proud of you for your 5 stars. keep writing, best regards, sue
Thanks sue, I'm glad it was not overwelming. I didn't want it to be, I just hope it made sense. All the best to you as well!
Teresa, First of all I lo-oved this: "The secret is: do it wrong long enough and he will do it for you!..." Ha! Now I know why you're called "Lucy!" (smile) I found your article wonderful and NOT trite -- what a wonderful way to express God's word! As I've responded to you in the past, I believe you've been blessed with a mission and please continue! Thanks for a wonderful article!!Thanks Judi! I appreciate the encouragement. And I'm glad you loved it because it's all true! I will continue until the Lord says stop, or until he returns - whichever comes first. To God be the glory!
Hi Teresa...this is so interesting!! I really enjoyed reading this article you wrote. I love the little prayer at the end also where you put grateful daughter....nice
Hi Kathy, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I pray it useful for you. Did you ever find my e-mail address? If not, I will try writing you again. Thanks for reading and commenting. I appreciate the stars.
Teresa, I loved your analogy, it was perfect. You are such a great writer. Keep giving us your inspirational articles and bible studies - I love them. God bless you and your family. Angie :-)
Hi Angie, thank you for the kind words of encouragement. Praise God that you are blessed by the articles and studies. Blessings from our Lord and Savior to you and your family as well :-)
Hi Teresa, I see from the "days ago"...that I am nearly 2 years behind in seeing this article. I am a Bible school student trying to write an analogical sermon on the "whole armour of God" and looking for a spiritual meaning (that means something to me) for each part of the armour, I just happened upon this site. Your analogy of the belt is awsome and very practical. I enjoyed your story. Differrent persons at various levels of spiritual maturity in Christ will understand it the way that God wants them to. May our Heavenly Father continue to bless you in your going out and your coming in...everyday.Hello Lavern, Sorry for the delay in responding to you - thank you for the words of encouragemnt and I am glad this was enjoyable to you. Lord bless you in your walk with him. Teresa
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