January 14, 2019
Ephesians 6:10-17 CEV
The devil is a liar; in fact, Jesus called him the father of lies. He has all kinds of tricks to hinder Christ’s followers from laying hold of God’s promises. It’s a battle evil wages in the heavenlies against Christ and believers. Although the devil is evil and an enemy of our souls, Christians have three enemies: the devil, the world, and our flesh. The devil uses the things of the world and our weak flesh to lure us away from our love and trust in Christ.
So, you need a “fight” strategy, because otherwise the devil will slip that worldly evil monkey (symbolic) onto your back, pierce and wound your flesh, and make you want to quit. Have a plan. Fear not, stay in step with the Spirit, remember you bear Christ’s righteousness, be determined to hang onto Truth, feed on the Word, walk in love, and partake in the promises of God. No weapon formed against you shall prosper; at the end of the battle you will be victorious.
Ephesians 6:10-17 The Fight against Evil
10 Finally, let the mighty strength of the Lord make you strong. 11 Put on all the armor that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil’s tricks. 12 We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world. 13 So put on all the armor that God gives. Then when that evil day[a] comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm.
14 Be ready! Let the truth be like a belt around your waist, and let God’s justice protect you like armor. 15 Your desire to tell the good news about peace should be like shoes on your feet. 16 Let your faith be like a shield, and you will be able to stop all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Let God’s saving power be like a helmet, and for a sword use God’s message that comes from the Spirit.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the encouragement to fight the good fight of faith every day. Help me stay the course in your fight against evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen.