THE ARMOR OF GOD

Withstanding spiritual opposition requires our responsive, conscious action.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” —Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

REFLECT ON THE WORD

As believers, we know that spiritual forces are behind many of the battles we face. Our preparation and strength to overcome such evil are abundantly provided by the Lord of heaven’s army. His protection and resources are great, intended for the individual believer and the collective church. Withstanding spiritual opposition requires our responsive, conscious action. Let us put on, take up, stand firm, be alert and pray unceasingly in the Spirit, walking in the victory He has already secured on our behalf.

PRAYER + CONTEMPLATION

1. Consider God’s personal and corporate call to battle readiness and the divine protection of spiritual armor He generously supplies. Write down some ways God has protected you in the past.

2. Pray in the Spirit for friends and family facing battles of many kinds, that they would be strengthened, protected and comforted by God’s presence and heavenly provision.

3. Clothed in the armor of God, and with the authority of the indwelling Holy Spirit, bind the enemy that prowls around seeking to devour, and declare the goodness of God over your life and circumstances.