The Armor of God

Brother, do you have your armor on today? Look in the arsenal of Ephesians 6 and you will find all that you need to stand against the fiery darts of the Evil One. Just as you are clothed in a Righteousness that is not your own, so you are clothed in an armor that you yourself did not forge. He has prepared it for you. Take upon yourself the Righteousness of Christ as your base layer, and upon that you may build His armor of protection. Preach the gospel to yourself daily, that you may not be tempted to violate the Righteousness of the One who sacrificed all to make you His own. Then take unto yourself each piece of His armor.

First, the belt of Truth. Ask for His help to discern between holiness and unholiness, for making this distinction is the first step to conquering the Evil One. Your struggle is not against physical opposition, but against deception, lies, and falsity. His discernment is your first weapon. Love Truth, seek His Truth in all things.

Secondly, do you have your breastplate of Righteousness? Yes, His atoning work ought to undergird every action, thought, and word, but you must also have His Righteousness blazing across your chest where all can see to whom you belong. How will they know? Would the Enemy dare assail one so boldly proclaiming the unfailing salvation and righteousness of Jesus Christ? He will try, but he cannot strip away what Christ has freely given through His blood. May all know to whom you belong; a child of the King.

Thirdly, on your feet you must put the shoes of the Gospel of Peace. Anxiety is not fitting for one who has peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication make your requests known to God. He hears the pleas of His warriors. Cry out to Him without ceasing, and be at peace knowing that He hears and answers.

Fourthly, do not be caught without your shield of faith as the Apostle Peter was on the stormy Sea of Galilee. Do not let the Lord say of you, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" Do not doubt, but set before you the shield of faith, which can easily consume all the flaming arrows of the Evil One. Trust in Him who is able to keep you from stumbling.

Fifthly, guard your head with the Helmet of Salvation. Christ has redeemed you; stand boldly and confidently, knowing that no fatal blow can befall your head because it is covered in the blood of the Lamb, washed white as snow. You will bruise the head of the Evil One, just as Christ did in His death, by proclaiming His victory in your life until He comes again.

Finally, take up the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, your offensive weapon. All the others shield from from the Devil's attacks, but with your Sword you can reverse your position from the defensive to the offensive, and you can deal a grand blow to the Enemy. Keep it with you always, hidden in your heart, written on a small card in your pocket, a constant reminder of all the other armor you wear. It is an endless supply of ammunition, suitable for every situation, temptation, and test. You will stand firm with such a Sword in your hand and in your heart.

The armor of the Lord is sufficient for your protection, Christian. Wear it well.