Fully Armored

Eph. 6:10-23

To fight a spiritual battle, we need spiritual protection, and we are assured that our battle is not with flesh and blood but with rulers, authorities, cosmic powers over this present darkness, and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Although if you are the person enduring the battle, it may seem that it is flesh and blood that is in control. Paul commands us to be strong in the Lord. Soak ourselves in His word and in prayer. But then he goes a step beyond that and commands us to put on the whole armor of God. This is what God has given us so that we might be protected and contend for the faith. We have the belt of truth to gird up our clothing or anything that might be hanging off us. Truth is essential if we are to withstand evil or even to recognize evil. Then the breastplate of righteousness which is the righteousness of Christ that protects our hearts and our vital organs. It is only in His righteousness that we can stand at all. After this Paul speaks of the gospel of peace for our shoes. Our primary mission is concerned with spreading the gospel, a gospel that brings peace between God and man. In any and all circumstances, we are to be equipped with the shield of faith that has the power to extinguish the flaming darts of Satan. Amazing what power is within our faith! Of course, we must have the helmet of salvation which is essential for our entrance in to the battle. Without it, we would already be Satan's. He would have no need to battle with us. God has also given us the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. How important it is for us to be soaked in His word. And after we are fully dressed in the full armor of God, then we must pray at all times in the Spirit. Praying without the Spirit goes no higher than the room that we are in. In fact, it is a waste of our breath. God has given us all that we need. We have no reason to fear or feel ill-equipped. Praise the God who save and equips!

Father,

Thank You for this armor. Help me always to remember to use it. Bring it to my mind.

In Jesus name,

Amen