Three Ways to Prevent a Spiritual RelapseParaugs

Day One | Put on the Armor of God

God Wants Us to be Equipped for Spiritual Warfare.

Apostle Paul discusses the concept of spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6:10-18. This passage draws our attention to the reality of our spiritual battles and provides a comprehensive strategy for standing firm against the schemes of the enemy and preventing a spiritual relapse.

What is a Spiritual Relapse?

A Spiritual Relapse is when a person reverts to their old habits and steps outside of God's covering. A spiritual relapse can occur when someone faces spiritual warfare (the fiery darts of the enemy) and succumbs to the enemy's attacks (John 10:10).

The first way to prevent a spiritual relapse is to adhere to Paul's exhortation to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (Ephesians 6:10). Our strength does not come from ourselves but from the Lord. Paul then instructs us to put on the full armor of God, emphasizing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:11-12).

Through this passage, we understand that each piece of spiritual armor serves a vital purpose in our defense and readiness against the schemes of the devil and how we can equip ourselves daily with God's armor.

God's armor includes the following elements:

1. The Belt of Truth represents the foundational truth of God's Word. It holds together our spiritual lives, providing stability and clarity amidst the world's deception.
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness protects our hearts from condemnation and accusation. Through Christ, we are clothed in His righteousness, securing our identity as children of God.
3. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace equip us to stand firm and share the message of peace found in Christ. Our readiness to proclaim the gospel is essential when spiritual warfare is active.
4. The Shield of Faith is our defense against the enemy's attacks. Faith in God's promises extinguishes every fiery dart of doubt and fear.
5. The Helmet of Salvation guards our minds with the assurance of salvation through Christ. It protects us from doubts about our identity and destiny in Him.
6. The Sword of the Spirit (Word of God) is our offensive weapon. Scripture is alive and powerful, enabling us to confront lies and deception with God's truth.
7. Praying in the Spirit and Petitioning God is essential, on all occasions, as it enables us to access the power and protection of God’s armor (Ephesians 6:18).

As we put on the armor of God, it is essential to understand that Paul was not merely sharing a metaphorical concept, but a practical strategy for spiritual readiness and the prevention of relapses. As seasoned believers, let us clothe ourselves with God's armor daily, standing firm in faith and prepared for every spiritual battle.

(Personal Reflection) Journal Question

In what areas do I need to develop my spiritual defenses against the schemes of the enemy?

Your Practical Action Step

Commit to the daily practice of putting on the armor of God through prayer and Scripture. Engage in the intentional study of God's Word to strengthen your spiritual defenses and stand firm in faith and truth against the enemy's attacks.

See you on Day Two.