Work Boots

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence. — 2 Peter 1:3

My family wasn’t big on ceremony, but I remember two events that marked the entryway into the grown-up world for my brothers and me. The first, which came when we turned twelve (or so) years old, was the gift of steel-toed work boots. The second, which came when we got our driver’s license, was our very own set of keys to the family car—with the bonus of a later curfew.

It’s the steel-toed boots that I’m thinking about. While receiving them meant hard work was in my future, it also meant that Dad was beginning to see me as a young man and no longer as a little boy. It was a statement of both expectation and honor.

What I remember most about the work boots was the character of the man who gave them to me. I want to be so many of the things that Dad was.

This is a picture of what God does when He gives His children “all things that pertain to life and godliness.” In granting these to us, He is treating us as sons and daughters who are joining Him in His work, fulfilling His purposes, and serving His kingdom.

And becoming more like Him in the process.