SPIRITUAL WEAPONS

Ephesians 6:10-18

We are at war 24/7 with our enemy, Satan, and his wicked spirits. Their scheme in attacking is to deceive people, lie, harass, torment, and keep people from coming to know the truth of Jesus Christ. If a person has a relationship with Jesus, Satan’s scheme is to keep that child of God bound, ineffective, and keep them from being a testimony of what God has done in their life.

Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, commands us to put on the full armor of God, which he goes on to explain. When we truly put on this spiritual armor intentionally and by faith, it will cause us to live in victory and stand triumphant when tempted, when lied to, and when attacked by the spiritual hosts of wickedness. It is through the strength and power of God, with His strong armor, that we are able to live in the victory that Jesus has already provided for us.

Each day, we are to put on intentionally and by faith:

1- The Belt of Truth. This piece of armor held the rest of the armor together. It was the central part of the armor. Our belt of truth is the Word of God, which is the truth (John 17:17). The Greek word for the fully inspired word of God is, logos. Without truth, it is impossible to combat the lies of Satan. With the truth, we can win!

2- The Breastplate of Righteousness. This part of the armor was the shiniest piece of the armor. When the sun hit the breastplate, it would shine brilliantly! It is important as we fight the enemy that we are righteous and clean before God through the blood of Jesus. The devil is the accuser and fights us with condemnation; our breastplate of righteousness protects us from guilt and shame. It gives us confidence during the battle that we are the Lord’s and nothing can overcome the blood of Jesus.

3- Shoes of Peace. This piece of armor was necessary to walk around and go into battle. There were metal spikes that were on the bottom of this part of the armor. The spikes would help with a firm footing in battle, but it was also used to kick and bring a horrific blow to the enemy. The peace of God gives us a firm foundation in the storms of life and against the attacks of Satan. We are also called to spread the gospel of peace to those around us.

4- The Shield of Faith. There were basically two kinds of shields in the Roman military. A small circular shield was used for celebrations and parades. But the shield used in war was as large as a door to protect the whole body of the soldier. The shield was able to be attached to the belt. Our faith in Christ and His Word overcomes the assault of doubt from the devil. Faith is confidence and full persuasion in what God says and His nature. What is interesting is that the soldiers would link up in battle side by side to make a wall that would be impossible for any enemy arrow to penetrate. It is so important not to fight the battle alone, but assemble with the local church, have close relationships with other believers, and fight the devil in unity!

5- The Helmet of Salvation. This piece of armor was the most decorated of all the pieces. The helmet protected the head which if was attacked would be fatal. Our minds must be protected by the truth of God’s Word. As those who have been saved, it is imperative that we know who we are in Christ and what we have in Christ. Knowing the truth about God and our position in Christ will remove any lie that the devil tries to fill our minds with.

6- The Sword of the Spirit. This sword was a machaira sword that was used in battle by the Roman soldier. It was the most feared weapon of the enemy because it was a razor sharp two edged sword. It was easy to penetrate the enemy and would kill easily the way it was used. The Greek word used here for the “word” of God is rhema. This is a different word used for the truth of God’s Word. Rhema means that which is spoken, uttered, or declared. The vicious weapon against Satan is the spoken Word of God against him. The rhema word of God comes out of knowing the logos Word of God. That which you speak comes out of what is already written in God’s Word. Jesus did this against the devil in Matthew 4 when He spoke out loud a portion of God’s Word in the time of need and temptation. God tells us here to do the same!

7- Praying Always. We must never forget to be connected to the Lord through prayer. We must intercede, give our petitions, praise Him, and listen to His voice. Paul calls us to pray in tongues, or in the Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:14-15). He also tells us to pray with all kinds of prayers in this passage. Prayer is dependence and trust in God who is with us, fights for us, and through us!

No matter what you are tempted with, looking to overcome, needing encouragement or direction, believing for great things in your life, the church, your community, make sure you are dressed for battle each day. Put on the armor daily, and watch how your life will change!