Chosen: A Study in EphesiansSample

What does it say?

God’s people can be strong in the Lord and stand against forces of spiritual darkness when they put on the whole armor of God.

What does it mean?

Paul warned the Ephesians to be prepared because Satan and his forces actively seek to oppose God’s people and hinder their mission. Sometimes persecution is overt and external, but occasionally covert and internal. The soldier described in verses 14-17 illustrates what a prepared Christian looks like. He is entirely clad in God’s spiritual armor. Completely aware that the enemy might attack at any moment, he utilizes God’s divine weapons: the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and prayer in the Spirit. The prepared Christian puts on the armor of God each day by faith through prayer.

How should I respond?

Most spiritual failures come from failing to take Satan’s strategies seriously. We need to anticipate his attacks and be prepared by trusting in God’s promises, seeking truth in the Bible, behaving rightly, and praying regularly. Being prepared doesn’t mean that you won’t face persecution, but it does mean that when it comes, you’ll be ready to stand firm in your faith. Take a minute to consider what areas of your life are most vulnerable to spiritual attack. Will you pray those things to the Lord every day this week? He‘ll give you strength for the battle if you commit to putting on His armor.