The moment we receive Christ as Savior, we are in a spiritual tug-of-war. Paul speaks extensively about the ongoing struggle between our old nature (flesh) and our new nature (new man). “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Eph 4:22-24) The only defense believers have against the onslaught of the enemy is the armor of God. “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the
devil. ” (Eph 6:11-13)
In the sixth chapter of Ephesians, Paul draws a comparison between our spiritual armor and that which was worn by the Roman soldiers. The first piece referenced is the belt or girdle used by the Roman soldier to cover the abdominal area and to hold his sword. “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;” (v. 14) We are to stand firm on the eternal truths about God and our relationship with him. This should be the foundation upon which our Christian life is built. (See II Tim 2:19)
Next is the breastplate, worn to protect the chest and other vital organs. Our heart is associated with our emotions and we must be careful not to allow them to control us. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”(Prov 4:23) The next piece of armor is the thick leather sandal, which covered the foot of the Roman soldiers. “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”(v.15) Just as they may have left their footprint; we should leave the peace of the gospel of Christ wherever we go. “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”(v.16) The shield was made of various materials (sometimes soaked in water) and represents the hedge of protection God provides for his children.
The helmet was the most costly and ornate piece of equipment worn; and it was designed to protect the head. “And take the helmet of salvation;”(v.17a) The helmet attracted the most attention because of its decorative design. In the same manner we should attract the world to Christ by displaying his character in our life. The mind is the battleground where decisions are made, and therefore, must be protected when attacked by the evil one. “…., and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”(v.17b) Our sword is the Word of God and should be used faithfully and skillfully against the world, the flesh and the devil. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”(Heb 4:12)
How often are we, caught without our armor; and thus unprepared to withstand an attack from the enemy of our soul? As Paul wrote to the Ephesian believers he continued to emphasize the importance and dire necessity of dawning each piece of the spiritual armor. In order to fight the good fight we must commit to dressing appropriately for battle each day. This is not simply a suggestion, but a God-given command that must be taken seriously. As we trust and obey Him, even through the most severe circumstances, we can be victorious.
devil. ” (Eph 6:11-13)
In the sixth chapter of Ephesians, Paul draws a comparison between our spiritual armor and that which was worn by the Roman soldiers. The first piece referenced is the belt or girdle used by the Roman soldier to cover the abdominal area and to hold his sword. “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;” (v. 14) We are to stand firm on the eternal truths about God and our relationship with him. This should be the foundation upon which our Christian life is built. (See II Tim 2:19)
Next is the breastplate, worn to protect the chest and other vital organs. Our heart is associated with our emotions and we must be careful not to allow them to control us. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”(Prov 4:23) The next piece of armor is the thick leather sandal, which covered the foot of the Roman soldiers. “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”(v.15) Just as they may have left their footprint; we should leave the peace of the gospel of Christ wherever we go. “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”(v.16) The shield was made of various materials (sometimes soaked in water) and represents the hedge of protection God provides for his children.
The helmet was the most costly and ornate piece of equipment worn; and it was designed to protect the head. “And take the helmet of salvation;”(v.17a) The helmet attracted the most attention because of its decorative design. In the same manner we should attract the world to Christ by displaying his character in our life. The mind is the battleground where decisions are made, and therefore, must be protected when attacked by the evil one. “…., and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”(v.17b) Our sword is the Word of God and should be used faithfully and skillfully against the world, the flesh and the devil. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”(Heb 4:12)
How often are we, caught without our armor; and thus unprepared to withstand an attack from the enemy of our soul? As Paul wrote to the Ephesian believers he continued to emphasize the importance and dire necessity of dawning each piece of the spiritual armor. In order to fight the good fight we must commit to dressing appropriately for battle each day. This is not simply a suggestion, but a God-given command that must be taken seriously. As we trust and obey Him, even through the most severe circumstances, we can be victorious.
The Armor of God
© Daystar Devotional, 2011
