Written By: Matthew MacLeod | CS Lake Michigan

Photo by: Leason Dancaescu

My son Jonah and I recently went on a West Coast adventure. We rented a car and drove down the scenic Highway 1 coastline, starting in Seattle and making our way south, staying in small towns along the way.

At nearly every stop, whether to fill up the gas tank or stay for the night, I felt a deep heaviness. My heart broke for the people we encountered who seemed lost and searching. It reminded me of the passage from Ephesians.

Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Jonah and I continually prayed for the people we met, even those who politely declined our offer. While not everyone was receptive, we were grateful that in every town we left, we had the opportunity to impact at least one person by sharing the gospel.

Five days later, we finally arrived in Pescadero, California, just one day before the Christian Surfers National Gathering. We were frothing to get in the water and experience California’s beautiful Pacific waves. Excited and eager, we rented two foam boards, a first for me, and headed straight to the surf.

The conditions were perfect. The waves were a clean four to five feet, and the water temperature felt great. As I paddled into the lineup, I sensed the same tension and watchful eyes that Jonah and I had felt when entering some of those small coastal towns. I caught my first wave, popped up, and immediately slipped right off the board. Confused and embarrassed, I paddled back out and waited for another opportunity.

Second wave. Same result.

Up on my feet, then straight into the water.

This continued for nearly two hours until I finally realized my mistake:

I had forgotten the basecoat. 

I headed back to the surf shop, bought some wax, and applied a proper basecoat. Once I got back in the water, everything changed. I finally had traction, confidence, and the ability to enjoy those beautiful California blues.

By the time Jonah and I arrived at the National Gathering, we were exhausted but relieved. More than anything, we were thankful to be surrounded by our brothers and sisters in Christ.

As I reflect on that experience, I can’t help but laugh. Forgetting your basecoat and paddling into the unknown is a lot like stepping into life without putting on the full armor of God. You might be eager, well-intentioned, and ready for the challenge, but without the proper foundation, you’re going to struggle to stand when the waves come.

The armor of God is our spiritual basecoat. It gives us the grip we need to stand firm, navigate challenges, and fulfill the mission God has called us to.

Don’t leave home without it.