As Christians, it is important for us to understand the severity and impact of spiritual warfare on us, our homes, communities and nations. It is easy for us to lose sight of the impact, because we often cannot physically discern or see what is happening. However, because of the severity of our warfare and its dynamics and nature, God has provided us with a unique armour set, to help us overcome him.
THE ARMOUR OF GOD
Ephesians 6:14-18 NLT
“[14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armour of God’s righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
Before we go on to discuss the individual components, let’s look at some general characteristics of our armour.
- First of all, an armour is a protective and defensive covering for the body. Thus, the armour of God, Greek, “panoplian tou Theou” is a supernatural protective and defensive covering that is identified with God, and which He has made available to us.
- Secondly, we need to know that the whole armour of God is physical illustration of spiritual concept. Paul used the picture of the full regalia of the Roman soldier to help us to understand what God has provided for us, in our warfare with the powers of darkness.
- The whole armour of God belongs to God and its essential components are employed by Him in His own dealings, especially with His enemies.
Isaiah 11:5 NKJV
“Righteousness shall be the belt of His loins, and faithfulness the belt of His waist.”
Isaiah 59:16-17 NKJV
“[16] ….Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; and His own righteousness, it sustained Him. [17] For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; He put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.”
- It is important also to know that the armour of God is not like our natural and physical garments that we put on in the morning and take off to sleep or to shower. We must ‘have it on” continuously and constantly, growing and developing its components in our lives.
- There are also parts of the armour that we might take and use when the occasion arises. These we would have developed as we have grown and matured in the Lord, in the word, prayer and the Spirit.
The thought of spiritual warfare and our combat with the unseen forces of darkness can induce fear. However, the knowledge about the comprehensive armour of God should encourage believers. Actually, because of this awesome provision for us from God, we can stop feeling weak, fearful and vulnerable to the enemy and start feeling strong and equipped to contend with him. AMEN!
For Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 10:4-6; Isaiah 49:2; Job 29:14; Romans 13:12
Fulfilling Our Theme For 2024: “Building The Highway And Lifting The Banner”
“And in that day, there shall be a Root of Jesse, who shall stand as a banner to the people; for the Gentiles shall seek Him…. (therefore) Go through, go through the gates! Prepare the way for the people; build up, build up the highway! Take out the stones, lift up a banner for the peoples!” [Isaiah 11:10, Isaiah 62:10]
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