Equipped in the Battle

Doesn’t it feel like life is always a battle? There is always something we are battling—worrying about what others think, stepping out of our comfort zones, fighting against sin, uncertainty, unsettling feelings, negative thoughts, fear, and so much more. And it can get tiring for sure. It sure seems like life would be a lot easier if God was like a genie and we could just wish all of our battles away, doesn’t it? 

Well . . . sorry to tell you, but that’s not how God works. But thankfully He doesn’t leave us to fight our battles alone. He furnishes us with the armor we need to fight against life’s (and the Enemy’s) battles, but it is our job to pick this armor up and use it.

In Ephesians 6:10-11, we are told to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. And then we are told to put on the full armor of God so that we can take our stand against the Devil’s schemes. Ok got it. And then it continues to explain to us what that armor consists of: a belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, helmet of salvation, shield of faith, sword of the Spirit, and feet of peace. 

That sounds like a lot. Can’t I just pray and You (God) do what I ask? (yep, those genie thoughts again). And then, if you’re like me, you’re questioning, “what the heck does all of that mean?” Thankfully I did some of that research for you and here is what I learned:

The belt of truth keeps us from giving into the world’s beliefs. It helps us keep our faces on the Truth of God, as well as aware of the lies of the Enemy.

The breastplate of righteousness helps us be honest, good, humble and fair to others. We are made righteous by Jesus. Good works naturally evolve out of good faith.

We put on the helmet of salvation by believing that Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again. We remember that we can not earn our salvation but it is given to us because of what Jesus Christ did for us.

The shield of faith helps us understand that God will keep His promises. Faith in God protects us when we are tempted to doubt.

The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. God’s Word is our offensive weapon. When we tell others about what the Bible says, the Holy Spirit helps people see their bad actions and thoughts and makes them want to be forgiven.

The feet of peace is the gospel of peace, which guides our steps, allows us to walk in peace, and empowers us to share the gospel.

The important thing to remember is that we are given the tools from God to fight. So the next time we are battling the Enemy, we just have to stand up and fight knowing we’re equipped and God is always on our side. Regardless of the battles we are facing, we can stay encouraged and know we are not alone.

i i