When it comes to going into battle, every person involved needs to be prepared if they are going to be successful. One of the most important aspects of going into battle is having the right tools to fight well. The same is true in the spiritual battles we face. If we want to fight against the enemy's tactics successfully, we have to have the proper armor and equipment.
In light of the enemy's battle against us, Paul warns us to fight and be prepared. He wrote in Ephesians 6. "Put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of the devil" (verse 6). What is the result of following Paul's instruction and putting on "every piece of God's armor?" "After the battle [we] will still be standing firm" (verse 13). If we are prepared and put on God's armor, we can be confident that we will be successful in our battle against the enemy. Paul continued teaching what the armor pieces that God gives us are. These gifts include "the belt of truth," "the body armor of God's righteousness," peace as shoes, "the shield of faith," "salvation as [our] helmet[s]," and "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (verses 14-17). All of these pieces of armor are gifts from God to help us fight against the enemy. The question is, are we picking up the pieces of armor to fight? Are we sharpening our tools?
Imagine the difference it would make if we chose to pick up the pieces of God's armor every day. Imagine if we armored ourselves with righteousness, God's truth, peace, a reminder of God's salvation, and Scripture. We would be more confident. We would not be as easily tempted or deceived. We would be bolder. We would be quicker to share our faith without fear of how the person we share with will respond. All of these pieces of armor are gifts from God, but we have to take the steps to put them on. What are you waiting for? Are you ready to prepare yourself to fight against the enemy with the pieces of armor God has given you? Remember, Scripture promises that when we put on all of the armor of God, we have the promise that we will be victorious against the enemy and his schemes.
How can you sharpen your sword and the rest of your tools when it comes to fighting against the enemy and his tactics? Maybe you need to spend more time reading Scripture. Maybe you need to spend more time in prayer. Maybe you need to remind yourself of your ultimate destination: heaven often. Whatever you decide, take steps to sharpen your tools so you can better fight against the enemy and his schemes.
"Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor 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.
19 And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. 20 I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.
21 To bring you up to date, Tychicus will give you a full report about what I am doing and how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper in the Lord's work. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose-to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you.
23 Peace be with you, dear brothers and sisters, and may God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you love with faithfulness. 24 May God's grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ."
