Ephesians 6:10-13
The devil is very real and still is actively at work today. He and the fallen angels are not to be laughed about or taken lightly. Too many act as if the devil is some silly cartoon character running around in a red suit wielding a pitchfork. Nothing can be further from the truth as we learned yesterday.
Paul gives us wise counsel in this sixth chapter as it pertains to the battle we are in. My Grandfather Killinger was a navy man during World War II. He was a gunner on a LST. This ship brought precious supplies to the beach head. My Grandfather and his fellow sailors fought not in a skirmish but in bloody battles. They went into battle with a plan and with the proper equipment. Paul gives us insight for the spiritual battle that each Christian is sure to endure. I want us to dig in and be prepared!
1. Be strong- We are to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. My strength will not do nor will your strength in this spiritual battle. We are not in a fight with mere humans, “But against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Verse 12). That is Bible truth. You wouldn’t fight a lion with a stick and so it is with the devil. There is no power like Gods power.
2. Put on- It is not our equipment that we use in this battle but it is Gods armour. Verses thirteen through seventeen teaches us about Gods armour. Paul uses the Roman soldier’s equipment of his day to describe our God provided armour.
A. Your loins girt about with truth (A Belt)-Gods truth is a line of defense that holds our armour together. It is not an ornament to be admired but an important part of our defense.
B. The breastplate of righteousness-The righteousness of Christ in us fortifies us against the devils attacks. The lives we lead will either make it easy or difficult on the devil and his angels.
C. Feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace- Firm footing is a must against the wiles of the devil. Our footing will be sure with the peace we have with God in Christ Jesus. Knowing the peace we have with God will prepare us for the onslaught brought by the devils lies. (See Romans 5:1)
D. The shield of faith- As we trust in Gods promises from His word, the shield will thwart the fiery darts of the wicked.
E. The helmet of salvation- The devil wants to control our mind. We allow God to control our minds when we allow His word to take root in our minds (Philippians 4:8-9).
F. The sword of the Spirit- Gods word is a two-edged sword that is never dull. It is always sharp! Unfortunately we become dull if we are not in God’s word. Don’t argue with the devil, simply draw Gods word from your sheath and stand in the power of His might.
Lets not be surprised! Let's be Prayerful and Prepared in 2017!