Ephesians 6:10-18 The Message (MSG)
When I was quite young, my family used to go to my grandfather’s cottage on a freshwater lake in Michigan. Dad would take the boat out away from the shore—away from the leeches—so we could swim. I was frightened because the water was deep and way over my head, but I would resist the help of a life preserver. I would bounce like a bobber trying to keep my head above water. Sometimes life feels like we are treading water; we can’t stop because we are in way over our heads, right?
Well, Jesus knows we are in over our heads in a fight against the things the Devil throws at us. We cannot handle the circumstances in our own strength; we need the life Preserver—Jesus. He supplies the help and weapons we need: Truth, righteousness, peace, and faith are all part of your salvation in Christ. Never let the enemy have your weapons.
Ephesians 6:10-18 A Fight to the Finish
10-12 And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
13-18 Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.
Prayer: Lord, help me hold onto truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and the joy of my salvation. Then, I will outlast the enemy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.