March 9, 2024
Read Leviticus 25, Psalm 68, Ephesians 6
How do most people protect themselves today? Some purchase a gun or other self-defense items. Some people enroll in a class and learn how to do it personally. Some may purchase a security system for their home. Physical protection is one area, but spiritual protection in spiritual warfare is much more serious. One of the best ways we can protect ourselves is found right here in Ephesians 6. Paul was in prison when he wrote the letter to the Ephesians. Scholars believe that used the image of a Roman centurion guard to craft the last part of Ephesians 6 which is affectionately referred to as the Armor of God.
Paul says to put in the “full armor” and not just a couple of pieces. “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” v. 11. We want to be fully prepared to face the things that the devil will throw at us each day. Is there a piece of armor that you often neglect to put on? Which one is the piece you need to remember most of all. “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand” v. 13. Notice it says “when” the day of evil comes and not “if” the day of evil comes. We will face it at some point.
Paul describes the six pieces of armor. “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled round your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” vv. 14-17. It has been pointed out that the sword is the offensive weapon, which is the Word of God. It is a vital part of the armor, and we should be well versed in God’s Word if we want to engage in battle. The sword can also be a defensive weapon too. A good soldier could parry with his sword and fend off blows from the enemy. Jesus did this in the wilderness when He was tempted by Satan. Jesus quoted the Scripture to fend off the attacks from the Devil.
What else do you see in these chapters? What words, phrases, or themes stand out to you?
Add your thoughts below.
DId God Really Say... 