In these often troublesome times, we would all do well to understand what the Bible has to say about the devil, the enemy of our souls. To defend ourselves, we will need to put on the “the whole armor of God” as it is described in Ephesians 6. With this armor, we become soldiers of God.
First, the belt of truth. The Bible says, “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth” (6:14). The belt consists of the truth of God as it is revealed in His Word. When Satan hurls his lies, we who are girded with truth will not be easily shaken. Secondly, we should armor up with “the breastplate of righteousness” (6:14). This breastplate consists of practical righteousness, or a resolve to obey God’s Word. With the soldier’s unbending determination to do right, temptation quickly loses its power.
Thirdly, we should have our “feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace” (6:15). The gospel of Christ gives assurance of peace with God. The soldier has total assurance of his soul’s salvation; nothing Satan can do or say will move the Rock on which he has planted his feet. The fourth piece of armor is called, “the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (6:16).” Someone has said, “Faith puts God between you and the enemy.” This soldier of God is able to trust his Commander for everything and in every situation.
Fifthly, we are told to “take the helmet of salvation (6:17).” Our Salvation involves victory over sin: past, present and future. With knowledge that he has already been declared victor, the soldier of God is not likely to surrender one inch of spiritual ground to the enemy. The last piece of armor is called, “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (6:17).” The sword of the Spirit is both given and wielded by the Holy Spirit of God, who is at home in the heart of every Christian soldier. The Word of God is the Christian’s powerful, offensive weapon.
Armor Up Soldier! …The Battle Rages!