Put on the Armor of God

The first recorded use of metal armor dates back to the Bronze Age (c. 1400–1200 BC), when soldiers wore bronze helmets and breastplates for protection. Leather and padded cloth also provided some defense against weapons.

However, God offers us a different kind of armor to face our spiritual Enemy. Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV) states, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."

The metaphor of the full armor of God, as described by the Apostle Paul, outlines spiritual attributes and practices that safeguard us in spiritual warfare. Here’s what each piece represents and how it shields us:

Belt of Truth:

• Ephesians 6:14a (NIV):"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist..."
• Protection: Truth holds everything together, much like a belt secures a soldier’s armor. It represents integrity and the truth of God’s Word, helping you stand firm against deception and falsehoods. The Enemy can twist God’s Word, so it’s essential to know the truth by reading and meditating on it.

Breastplate of Righteousness:

• Ephesians 6:14b (NIV): "...with the breastplate of righteousness in place..."
• Protection: The breastplate guards a soldier’s vital organs, especially the heart. Your spiritual heart is where your true self resides, where you commune with God and align your will with His. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) reveals to us, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

Feet Fitted with the Readiness that Comes from the Gospel of Peace:

• Ephesians 6:15 (NIV): "...and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."
• Protection: Just as sturdy footwear allows a soldier to stand firm and move confidently, the readiness and peace from the gospel enable you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and tranquility. Divine stillness flows from being anchored in God's Presence.

Shield of Faith:

• Ephesians 6:16 (NIV): "In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one."
• Protection: The shield defends against distant attacks. Faith provides spiritual defense against doubts, temptations, and fear, because faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) Faith is a firm trust in God's promises and His character.

Helmet of Salvation:

• Ephesians 6:17a (NIV): "Take the helmet of salvation..."
• Protection: The helmet protects the head, a critical part of the body where spiritual warfare begins. Our thoughts shape our beliefs, and our beliefs shape our actions. Salvation safeguards the mind, ensuring that our thoughts are protected by the assurance of eternal life and the hope found in Jesus.

When your heart is hurting, lean into God’s Word. When negative thoughts plague your mind, straighten your helmet and remember who you are in Christ. When the storms of life rage like category 5 hurricane winds, stand firm in God’s peace. Each piece of the armor of God provides essential spiritual protection, enabling you to stand firm against spiritual challenges and live out your faith victoriously.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I have been fighting my battles ill-equipped and exposed to the enemy’s attacks. Clothe me in Your armor and prepare me to confront and overcome whatever comes my way. I no longer want to fight any battle without You. In Jesus' name, Amen.