Armor of Godಮಾದರಿ

Our Firm Foundation

Every soldier needs protection and armor when they go into battle. Although we're in a spiritual battle, we, too, need protection. Paul lists some different pieces of equipment at our disposal. Paul is essentially saying, “Take these things! They will help you stand against the enemy.” This is similar to when God told David, “Go get a sling and rocks from the river to take down the giant, Goliath.” If we stand firm with the tools God has given to us, we will see the enemy’s giants fall in our lives.

The first two he lists are the Breastplate of Righteousness and the Belt of Truth. These have similar meanings, but when you think about a Roman soldier’s armor, which Paul used as a practical reference, the breastplate was one of the largest, most foundational pieces. The large plate covered some of the most critical parts of a soldier's body, the shell that housed all the organs. It is the largest protective measure. The second piece, the Belt of Truth, is vital because it holds the armor together.

But “Of righteous?” “Of truth?” What is Paul saying? He’s referring back to the idea of our foundation. Righteousness comes from Jesus and His work on the cross (1 Corinthians 15). Truth comes from Jesus and the Word of God. These things are the foundation on which we can stand. Remember, he said, "Stand Firm against the enemy." The only way we can stand firm is if we are standing on the rock.

In His most famous sermon, the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells a parable or story about two men building a house. One was built on sand, and the other on rock. When the storm comes, the one on the rock is the only one left standing. Why? Because of its foundation. Our foundation is critical when we armor up to stand against the enemy, which is why Paul lists these pieces first in his list of battle equipment.

Question to Ponder:

Have you accepted Jesus? If so, are you building your foundation on Him as the Rock of your life so you have a firm place to stand? How has that foundation made a difference in your life?