In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul gives us a clear roadmap for how to stand strong against the spiritual battles we face daily, and more and more as Jesus’ return draws ever closer. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10-11, ESV). These verses remind us that we are not battling flesh and blood but spiritual forces that want to pull us away from God.
Understanding Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual warfare is not a physical fight but an ongoing battle in our minds, hearts, and spirits. The enemy seeks to distract, discourage, and deceive us, but God has given us everything we need to stand firm. We are called to take up the full armor of God so that we can resist these attacks and live in the victory Jesus has already won for us.
The first step is recognizing that spiritual warfare is real and that we cannot face it alone. In our own strength, we will falter. But when we rely on God’s power, clothed in His armor, we stand secure.
Putting on the Full Armor of God
Paul describes six key pieces of the armor of God, each designed to protect and equip us for the spiritual battles we face:
- The Belt of Truth: The belt holds everything together. In the same way, truth holds us together in life. Knowing God’s truth—who He is and who we are in Christ—keeps us grounded when the enemy throws lies our way.
- The Breastplate of Righteousness: This piece guards our hearts. It’s not our righteousness but Christ’s righteousness that protects us from guilt and shame. When we walk in His righteousness, the enemy’s accusations have no hold on us.
- The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: These shoes give us firm footing. The gospel brings us peace with God, and that peace gives us stability. No matter what the enemy throws at us, we can stand firm, knowing we are reconciled with God.
- The Shield of Faith: Our faith in God’s promises acts as a shield, protecting us from the fiery darts of doubt, fear, and temptation. When we hold up the shield of faith, we remind ourselves that God is in control, no matter what we see around us.
- The Helmet of Salvation: This helmet guards our minds. When we know we are saved and secure in Christ, the enemy’s lies about our worth, identity, or future have no power over us.
- The Sword of the Spirit: The sword is the Word of God, our only offensive weapon. When Satan tempted Jesus, He responded with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). We, too, can defeat the enemy’s lies by knowing and speaking God’s Word.
Each piece of this armor is vital. Without the full armor of God, we leave ourselves vulnerable to attack. But with it, we stand firm, even in the face of spiritual warfare.
Praying at All Times
In addition to putting on the armor of God, Paul reminds us to “pray at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer connects us to the power of God and keeps us alert. When we are prayerful, we are more aware of the enemy’s schemes and better equipped to resist them.
Prayer is how we reinforce the armor of God in our lives. It’s the breath of our spiritual lives, keeping us strong and ready for whatever comes our way. Whether we pray for strength, guidance, or protection, prayer keeps us close to God and allows His power to work through us.
Standing Firm in Faith
Spiritual warfare is not something to fear. God has equipped us with the tools we need to stand firm. When we put on the armor of God, we are prepared to face any spiritual attack that comes our way. We don’t fight for victory; we fight from victory, because Jesus has already overcome the enemy.
Living in these last days, we must be spiritually prepared. The attacks may be subtle or sudden, but God’s armor gives us the strength to stand firm in faith. The enemy may try to deceive or discourage us, but with the armor of God, we can stand unshaken.
As we await the return of Jesus, let’s daily equip ourselves with the armor of God, walking in His strength, truth, and peace. Spiritual warfare is real, but so is our victory in Christ.
By grounding ourselves in Scripture and remaining connected to God in prayer, we are ready for the spiritual battles that come our way. The armor of God is our defense, and it allows us to live boldly for Christ, even in the face of opposition. Stand strong, knowing that with God’s armor, you are never fighting alone.
Spread the Gospel; lives depend on it!
I pray, MARANATHA! (Come Quickly, Lord Jesus!)
Your brother in Christ,
Duane
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How to pray
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