Armor of God

¹⁰Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. ¹¹Put on  the full armor  of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹²For our struggle is not against flesh  and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,  against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens.  ¹³For this reason take up the full armor  of God, so that you may be able to resist  in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. ¹⁴Stand, therefore, with truth  like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, ¹⁵and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. ¹⁶In every situation take up the shield  of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷Take the helmet of salvation and the sword  of the Spirit-which is the word of God. ¹⁸Pray  at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert  with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.” ~Ephesians 6:10-18 CSB

Suit Up!

Paul’s words to Ephesians still ring true in my heart today.

We must arm ourselves against the everyday struggle of temptation, injustice, deception, and evil influences in the world. These spiritual qualities and practices  help believers face temptation, hardship, moral challenges, and what Paul describes as spiritual opposition.

• Belt of Truth: commitment to truthfulness and God’s truth.
• Breastplate of Righteousness:  living in a way that reflects God’s standards.
• Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: readiness to share and live out the message of Christ.
• Shield of Faith: trusting God during trials and doubts.
• Helmet of Salvation: confidence in one’s relationship with God and hope of salvation.
• Sword of the Spirit: using Scripture as guidance and defense against error.
• Prayer: ongoing dependence on God.

Daily Application

I’m sadly lacking in these areas and need to study, open my heart, and apply these practices to my everyday life, so they become permanent spiritual qualities in my life and heart.