The Armor of God

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Ephesians 6:12

In his final charge to the fledgling church in Ephesus, Paul reminds them that God has given them spiritual armor to stand against the enemies of their souls. Using analogies they frequently see on occupying Roman soldiers, Paul invokes this armor as necessary in their stand against the enemy. The armor includes six pieces of protection. The belt of truth is the under armor with which they are to wrap themselves. The breastplate of righteousness is God’s goodness and perfection that allows them to remember their sins are forgiven through Jesus. The shoes of the gospel of peace give them a secure footing when facing attack. The shield of faith provides defense against flaming arrows seeking to injure. The helmet of salvation protects their mind and thoughts from enemy attack. The sword of the spirit is God’s Word, used to deflect the devil’s lies and deceptions.

The same armor is still needed and available to us today. These are gifts from God through the gospel of Jesus. Used properly, they allow us to step confidently into spiritual warfare. Each piece of armor represents a gift that will help us stand firm against the world, the flesh and the devil. The armor has already been given to us. Putting it on is the action we need to take to overcome our spiritual enemies.

TODAY: Express your gratitude to God for the gospel and everything that Jesus accomplished for us on the cross. Specifically, thank him for the spiritual armor that allows you to stand firm in your fight against spiritual enemies.