Intro: Some days it appears as if the devil is prevailing in this world, but it is precisely during these moments that we must stand strong in the power of God’s might and resist evil. Satan wants to defeat Christ’s Church through apostasy and deception, so being grounded in the Word of God provides protection and the ability to know the Truth. When we are determined to live a Spirit-controlled life, we will face spiritual warfare. Therefore, we need a defense for spiritual combat. Do you believe you need to protect yourself from the opposition of your spiritual Adversary?
In our passage today, the Apostle Paul wants the Ephesians to wake up and pay attention to the things they can do to cover themselves with the Lord’s protection in the midst of spiritual warfare. It is the Lord who helps us stand strong against the strategies of spiritual evil. Satan works through an evil world’s system. He is encompassed in every sin, immoral practice, false theology, false religion, and worldly temptation. Satan seeks to twist the Word of God, hinder God’s work and servants, hinder the gospel, and trap the righteous (Zech 3:1; Matt 4:6; 1 Thess 2:18; 2 Cor 4:4; 1 Tim 3:7). Because we have changed our allegiance from the realm of darkness and onto Christ the Light of the World, we have to accept those who rule the darkness will not let us leave their power without a fight. Therefore, if we are going to grow in godliness, we must put on the whole armor of God!
Righteousness is brought about by both the impartation of Christ, as well as the transformation the Holy Spirit works in us to bear spiritual fruit as we seek the Kingdom (Mat 6:33). Our faith must be lead by the Peace of God. This is a huge battle all by itself, because the things going on in the world strategically stir fear in people all the time. We must believe and use our faith to trust God to meet our needs even though the times are evil. Even when we are tempted to be afraid, we must use our shield of faith against the fiery darts of the enemy. May the salvation of Christ protect our minds as we stand on God’s Word and pray prompted by the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 6:10-20 NLT The Whole Armor of God
10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we [all Christ followers] 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.
13 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. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared [readiness to preach peace with God]. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil [evil one]. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
19 And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike [all people made holy by Christ]. 20 I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.
Prayer: Lord, help me to put on your armor everyday and continue to walk by faith as I trust in you to protect me and my loved ones in Jesus’ name. Amen.