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What Does It Really Mean to Put on the Full Armor of God?

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Often times when we’re in a serious life battle, we choose to fight using the weapons of this world.

We try to fix, manage, or control, thinking if we can just “try harder” we can make things better.

But God has told us over and over – the only way to fight the battles of this world is with spiritual weapons. But just what are those spiritual weapons?

Ephesians 6 outlines the real weapons we are to use to fight the spiritual battles we can’t even see.

“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.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.

Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.

In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”

– Ephesians 6:10-18

Belt Of Truth

Knowing who God is and what His Word says can help us stand firm in the truth.

Staying in your Bible and learning the character of God will help guard your mind and heart – and keep you grounded in who you are in Christ.

When false teachers come, and they will, you’ll be able to know they aren’t from God.

And likewise, when the enemy tries to get you to wonder “Did God Really Say” … you’ll be able to discern his schemes because you’ll know what God’s Word says.

Breastplate Of Righteousness

Internalizing that it is only through Christ that we are at peace with God can help us grasp the righteousness of Christ – who died and paid the price for all the sins of the world.

While our works don’t make us righteous, as believers who have received the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the strength to make wise decisions and therefore can choose to do the right thing.

Instead of filling our minds with garbage TV and the temptations of the world – we can fill our minds with God’s truth and live a life that is pleasing to Him.

Our lives should reflect the Gospel we believe – and we must continue to let Christ purify our hearts.

The Shoes Of The Gospel Of Peace

As Christians, we can stand firm in who we are in Christ by planting our feet in His Word and truth.

And once we know the Gospel of peace, we are commanded to take it to others – always willing to give a reason for the hope that we have.

Shield Of Faith

When times are hard, it can be tough to see a way out of our current circumstances.

But we must remember God is always God – and He is always working behind the scenes.

Faith makes us confident of the things we cannot yet see.

During tough times, we can remember all the promises God has kept to His people from the beginning of time, having faith that He will keep His promises to us too.

As a believer, it’s critical you surround yourself with other believers so you can encourage one another to stay on the narrow path and keep the faith.

Helmet Of Salvation

It is by the blood shed by Jesus on the cross that you are saved, if you put your trust in Him as Lord.

If you are truly His, nothing can snatch you from His hand.

Your salvation is secure, even when you don’t feel it.

While in this world you’ll have troubles, you can take comfort in knowing that if you are in Christ, this world is not your home.

Knowing your salvation is impenetrable, you can resist any doubt the enemy will send your way hoping to get you to question your salvation.

Sword Of The Spirit

With the Word of God, you’ll be able to defeat any spiritual battle.

Remember when satan tried to tempt Jesus?

Jesus recited Scripture.

If you hear a lie in your mind – that God doesn’t love you or you’re not enough – recall a verse from the Bible you’ve memorized and fight the lies of the enemy with the truth.