and having shod the feet in preparation of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15).
Preparing our feet with the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15) protects us from stealing, spiritual laziness, and bitterness.
The gospel of peace is the good news that brings peace (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace” (Romans 10:15). We have been justified out from faith, not out from works (Romans 5:1). Freely we were given; freely we are to give (Matthew 10:8).
All that we have in Christ was graciously given to us (Romans 8:32). Therefore, the one who stole is to steal no more, but rather work with his hands so that he may give in the same manner in which he received (Ephesians 4:28–30).
This readiness to give the gospel message when the opportunity arises also prevents spiritual laziness (1 Timothy 5:11–15). When we apply our salvation, we will not be idle (2 Peter 1:8). False teachers promote a spiritually lazy lifestyle based on following step patterns to be righteous, rather than training the senses to discern between what is wrong and what is proper (Titus 1:12; Hebrews 5:14). Any aspect of law is not out from faith (Galatians 3:12); this includes self-help and step methods (Galatians 3:2).
Bitterness also will not be allowed to take root (Job 7:11). Through bitterness, Satan seeks to influence us to lie against the truth (James 3:14). Bitterness is a feeling of resentment and hostility that stems from a sense of being wronged or perceiving injustice. This emotion arises from unresolved hurt, disappointment, or failure and causes a person to dwell on negative experiences. It is an attitude that believes one deserves better. However, in Christ, we have been graciously given all things, and it is a gracious thing to suffer for His sake. Therefore, bitterness, wrath, inner burning anger, shouting, and blasphemy are to be put away from us (Ephesians 4:31).