“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

Wars, strife, and contentions surround us on every side; but more importantly the born-again believer is engaged in and all out spiritual warfare everyday of our lives. It is imperative that we remain watchful and constantly on guard as we travel this Christian journey.  1 Peter 5:8 admonishes us to “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: “

Satan is certainly a formidable foe. However, we are not left out on the battlefield unarmed and without divine help. God has provided us with the power and weapons to fight victoriously in this spiritual warfare until He returns. The Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:11 -18 describes our spiritual armor in association with the ancient Roman soldier. Each piece of armor gave the soldier a very distinct advantage over their barbarian enemies. Our spiritual suit of armor also gives us the advantage over the enemy. Let us take a look:

Ephesians 6:14 – “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;”

The belt of truth – it is essential that we saturate ourselves in the word of truth…knowing what God has said and promised. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. The truth helps us to stay grounded against the deception of Satan lies… various anxieties, worries of things that may never come to pass, are all dispelled by God’s truth.

The breast plate of righteousness –we have been made righteous in Christ. Not self-righteousness…note the scripture state “made” it is a divine act; it is only through Christ righteousness that we are made free. Therefore, when we are suited up in the righteousness of Jesus, we can rest in the promises of of these words “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17.

Ephesians 6:15 – “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;” Having our feet shod with the gospel of peace denotes being eager to share the gospel with others who have not heard the good news!… but you must be equipped and ready to move… we must first be recipients of God’s amazing grace and the new birth; then we can tell everybody, about somebody who saves anybody! Satan desires to keep those who are blinded to the truth in bondage and away from the marvelous light…but as born-again believers, we are the lights that shine in this dark world…to spread the gospel!”

Ephesians 6:16 – “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”

The shield of faith – we must cling to our faith in God’s word and His promises; always remembering that He is faithful and true. Hebrews 11:6 state “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” The Apostle Paul describes our shield of faith as a large piece of artillery… the Roman shield was able to connect with others and provide protection against the fiery darts of the enemy. Faith in the omnipotence and unconditional love of God provides a shield of protection all around us.

Ephesians 6:17 – “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:”

The helmet of Salvation – Paul speaks here of a three-dimensional phase to salvation…God’s grace secures our past, present and future. Our helmet protects our minds in clearly thinking that once God by His divine power has saved us, we are always saved. Clarity in mind and thoughts help to keep us focused and gives us the ability to ward off the onslaughts of Satan… He is the accuser of the brethren…but the price has been paid on Calvary’s cross and nothing can separate us from His love!

The Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Most of the armor is defensive…but our Sword is two edged…it is both defensive and offensive. The word Logos…meaning the expression of thought or the written word and Rhema which is the spoken word is essential is the description that Paul related to the Sword of the Spirit.

Rhema is not the whole bible but individual scriptures that the Holy Spirit will bring to our remembrance at certain times when we need them the most; God to us when we need a word, God to others as He uses us to witness, encourage, comfort and teach others His word and lastly, when the Holy Spirit provides us with His word to fight against the attacks of Satan and we need to quote aloud scriptures in our defense; it gives strength, power and peace. So…on guard, keep your sword close!

Ephesians 6:18 – “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

Prayer– The bible teaches us that the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Our armor is held together with prayer. It must be consistent and intense…it is only through daily prayer that we can find strength to run this race in all sincerity; it must be focused on God.

We are duty bound to pray for the brethren… our prayer life must be unselfish and strategic… our prayer life is heavy artillery in the heavenlies!

So, are you suited up today? As beloved children of God, we are equipped to win “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13.

God blessings of love and peace to all.