‘Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.’ Psalms 119:105(NLT)
‘A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.’ Ephesians 6:10-18(NLT)
Paul uses military armor to illustrate the fundamentals of our faith. A soldier’s belt was the basic piece of clothing under which all others build. Our foundation to our faith is the truth of the gospel. We must build everything else upon that truth. The breastplate of righteousness is the protective mechanism for our hearts. By living by God’s standards, we will guard ourselves from temptation. We are to be prepared and sure footed in the message of Christ that brings peace. That way, when attacks come, we will be able to stand firm in our faith.
Our shield in times of attack is our faith. In ancient battles, a soldier fought with assurance because of the protection of his helmet. Our security and confidence come from the knowledge of our salvation. God has promised to fight our battles for us and with us.
The only offensive weapon given for our battles is the Word of God. We must not forget the power of Jesus’ name. It is not simply a way to end a prayer, but rather how we beseech the intervention of the Lord Almighty.
The Lord provides us the armor, but we are the ones who must put on and use each piece. As you fight your current battles, which piece of armor do you need to engage more fully?
Father God, thank You for equipping me with everything I need for victory. Help me to remember that You are all I need. Teach me to rely on You instead of my own strength. Thank you for Your protection and Your deliverance. Continue to build my faith as I learn to trust you more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
from Love God Greatly: Fear & Anxiety