Ephesians 6:10-17 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench 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.”
Wednesday, November 11, is Veteran’s Day. We give thanks for those who served our country to give us freedom. Please be in prayer for our veterans, especially those dealing with long-term effects of their service, including physical and mental illness. Pray as well for the safety and wisdom for those serving in our armed forces around the world.
Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6 to “put on the whole armor of God.” He doesn’t say put on the armor, but put on the whole armor. What does that mean for how we live?
Our struggle isn’t against flesh and blood. It is against spiritual forces. It is against sin, corruption, lust, envy, greed, fear, shame, and much more. These forces attack us repeatedly. If we do not care for our souls, protect our faith, and stand firm in Christ we will fall.
We need the whole armor then. We need the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel, shield of faith, and helmet of salvation. This requires us to be well versed in Scripture, anchored in relationship with other Christians, held accountable by others in faith, and in worship and prayer with our fellow Christians.
As we remember those who defend our country this week, let us not forget about the defenses God has given us in Him. That armor is eternal. It is real. It is important for the Christian faith. Let us fight the good fight so the world may see Christ in us!
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