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Jul 25, 2024 18:00pm

What Now?: Armor

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The following comes from the devotional book “What Now?” by Ashley Akers. To learn more, go to www.whatnowdevo.com.

Armor

When I hear the word “armor”, I immediately think of battle. Armor is used to shield or protect someone or something important. We normally think of this protection in a physical sense, but for the Christian, the Bible teaches us about a spiritual armor, “the armor of God”.

We are constantly fighting in a spiritual battle we may not see, but we certainly experience. Every person feels the intensity of the devil and his schemes and must learn to fight against them. Ephesians 6:13-18 (NLT) explains how:

“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. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”

You may be asking what exactly this means, and how to “put on” the armor? First, examine the pieces. The second paragraph lists the various pieces of armor for us. Let’s consider each one.

The Belt of Truth

Putting on the belt of truth means we make it a priority to learn the truths that God gives us in His word.

The Body Armor

The body armor (which functioned like a bullet-proof vest that protects a police officer from a gunshot) illustrates how righteousness, or living by God’s guidelines, protects the Christian. As you make right choices, God is able to protect your heart. His standards provide protection for your thoughts and feelings, including things like emotions, doubt, shame, and questions of self-worth.

Shoes of Peace

When scripture lists shoes, it is saying that understanding the Good News of Jesus gives us an inner stability that allows us to do both, stand firm and to go where He has asked to share Jesus with others.

Shield of Faith

Shield of Faith is basically saying to trust in God – even if you don’t see His way working. When you trust God enough to live as He says, you will have protection, a shield, from the way Satan attacks you. For example, temptations can be like fiery arrows coming at you from any direction. But, when we have faith in and pursue God’s plans, He provides a way out so we do not have to fall victim to attacks!

Helmet of Salvation

Most importantly, put on your helmet, which is salvation. Think for a moment about what a helmet does. It protects your head. In a successful attack, if the head is left unprotected, all is lost. Without the helmet of salvation, Satan will eventually win the battle when you die and you are lost for all eternity. Make sure your salvation is securely in place.

Sword of the Spirit

Lastly, take up the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s Word. God’s Word is truth and is your weapon to fight against the devil’s schemes. Read it, memorize it, ponder how it applies to your life and use it to fight. You’ll win.

So, how does all of this come together? By praying at all times. You develop warrior strength and secure your armor by talking with God throughout each day and depending on His Spirit. Pray for yourself, for others, for His will and for His help all day long.

Reflection Questions

What piece of “armor” stood out to you the most and why?
What kind of temptations are you currently facing?
A soldier wears his armor all the time he’s on the battlefield, not just occasionally. As a Christian soldier, do you have all your armor on all the time, every day?