“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:11-12)
The enemy does have schemes. He hates humankind because we are made in God’s image and he has set himself squarely against God. He hates the human body because he doesn’t have one. He does his best to try and make us hate our bodies in various ways. He is the father of lies and he never stops lying.
So we take up the whole armor of God in order to be able to stand firm against what comes against us.
We’re told to put on:
- The belt of truth
We need to know what the truth is as found in his word and illuminated by the Spirit. - The breastplate of righteousness
Our lives should reflect godly living and avoidance of habitual sin. - Shoes of the gospel of peace
As much as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Don’t be quarrelsome, but deal with each person you meet with perfect courtesy. - The shield of faith
Faith is the “victory that has overcome the world.” With faith you can extinguish all the darts that come at you from the enemy - The Helmet of Salvation
Protect your thoughts – don’t let anxiety cloud the truth that God is for you, loves you, and has saved you. - The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God
This is the only offensive thing listed. It is living, active and sharper than the sword used to describe it. God uses his Word to transform us, to change us from the inside out. Jesus fought Satan with the Word of God. Let “It is written,” be the way you actively combat his evil schemes.
Get to know the Word. Memorize it. Hide it in your heart.
Life By The Way 