“Put on the full armor of God; so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 NASB
As Alabamians, we have learned to live with unpredictable weather. Storms come up quickly, sometimes with no warning. We try our best to match our apparel to the weather predictions for the day. However, with the sudden changes of weather, we often find ourselves caught without an umbrella or jacket.
What about the sudden, unexpected spiritual storms in our lives?
Spiritual storms suddenly manifest themselves in the life of a Christian. Storms like fear, doubt and confusion can strike unexpectedly. How can we prepare for them?
The Apostle Paul gives us a way to prepare each day for potential spiritual storms. In the book of Ephesians, in Chapter 6, Paul uses the example of a Roman soldier preparing each day for battle as instruction for us in putting on our spiritual armor each day.
The Belt of Truth is the first article of clothing and is central to everything; knowing the truth of God’s word, His promises, who Jesus Christ is and who we are in Him. The Breastplate of Righteousness is to protect our heart and emotions. The Shoes of the Peace of the Gospel are for walking in peace, encouragement and hope with those around us. The Shield of Faith is to deflect the darts of the enemy. The Helmet of Salvation is to remind us who we are in Christ, and that we are never truly alone. Finally, The Sword of the Spirit is for opposing the lies of the world with the truth of The Word of God.
In the wilderness, during His 40 days of temptation, Jesus used the truth of the Word of God to respond to the counterfeit words of Satan. When the enemy tried to twist and distort the Word of God, Jesus responded three times with scripture from the Book of Deuteronomy.
In battle, the Roman soldier would use the shield and the sword together, defensively and proactively. In like manner, the truth of God’s Word is defensive and proactive.
Through the years, men and women of faith have taught the immeasurable value of studying the Bible to learn the truth of God’s Word. Knowing the truth enables them to use this “Sword” to address any situation in which they find themselves. The timeless truth of the Book of Ephesians, although written thousands of years ago, still protects us and prepares us for each day.
“I will trust in you and not be afraid.”
Isaiah 12:2 NASB
