Into The Breach – Being A Christian ManSample

  

Day 3 — The armor of God

Read: Ephesians 6:10-20

In every man is a warrior. He has a battle to fight, a mission that transcends his life, a cause greater than self-preservation. But Christian warfare is not a matter of primitive violence and tribal battles. The early Christians were faithful to the command of Jesus to love their enemies and respond to evil nonviolently. Nevertheless, Paul knew that we are in a battle with the “rulers of this present darkness” and the “evil spirits in the heavens” (v. 12 NABRE). As men of God we must resist the temptations of the devil and hold our ground in the battle against evil (v. 13). This requires that we put on our spiritual armor: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of readiness for the gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of God’s word (vv. 14-17). 

We were created to be God’s intimate ally in this great battle. Like good warriors for God, we must remain vigilant in our prayer and persevering in spiritual combat. We must step into the breach that lies open to attack for the sake of our families and our Christian culture. Like Paul, we must live as witnesses of the gospel of Jesus Christ, faithful to our mission of proclaiming the message of truth, goodness, freedom, and salvation on whatever field of battle God has placed us. 

Although this battle is spiritual, it is very real. So, don’t even think about going into combat alone. We need fellow warriors, soldiers to fight alongside, men to watch our back. We need a band of brothers willing to be wounded in the service of the Lord. There is never a more devoted group of men than those who have fought alongside one another. The battle will get fierce, but that’s why we’ve been given a fierce heart for God and for one another.

REFLECT: What armor do I particularly need for the battle I am fighting today?  

PRAY: Lord and King, you have knighted me with armor and sword for spiritual combat. Make me brave and noble, allegiant and faithful, as I battle the evil in the world for the sake of your kingdom.