Love God Greatly-Fear & Anxietyنموونە

 READ: Ephesians 6:10-18, Psalm 119:105

SOAP: Ephesians 6:11-12

This world is our battlefield. Yet, we are well-equipped to withstand any temptations and trials that come our way. God has prepared us by His Word and His Spirit for us to stand against our enemy. When we want to retreat, we must instead put on the armor God has given us so that we will stand firm.

Paul uses military armor to illustrate the fundamentals of our faith. A soldier’s belt was the fundamental piece of clothing under which all others build. Our foundation to our faith is the truth of the Gospel. We must build everything else upon that truth. The breastplate of righteousness is the protective mechanism for our hearts. By living by God’s standards, we will guard ourselves against temptation. We are to be prepared and surefooted in the message of Christ that brings peace. That way, when attacks come, we will be able to hold firm in our faith.

Our shield in times of attack is our faith. Paul reminds us of how powerful our faith is. In ancient battles, a soldier fought with assurance because of the protection of his helmet. Our security and confidence come from the knowledge of our salvation. God has promised to fight our battles for us and with us.  

The only offensive weapon given for our battles is the Word of God. We must not forget the power of Jesus’ name. It is not simply a way to end a prayer, but rather how we beseech intervention of the Lord Almighty.

The Lord provides us the armor, but we are the ones who must put on and utilize each piece. As you fight your current battles, which piece of armor do you need to engage more fully?

Father God, thank You for equipping me with everything I need to be more than a conqueror. Help me remember that You are all I need. Teach me to rely on You instead of my own strength. Thank you for Your protection and Your deliverance. Continue to build my faith as I learn to trust you more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.