Hope FirstSample

Full Armor

When you read the Bible, you realize that it is more than just a storybook about the life of Jesus. Within its pages, you find help, healing, encouragement, and provision. The Word teaches us what to do during times of crisis, and it also gives us instructions before difficulties arise. Jesus told us in John 16:33 that “In this world, you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.” Not only has Jesus overcome the world (and all pain, disease, depression, fear, and pressure from it), but the Word also provides us with the tools to prepare for that victory. 

If you know it’s going to rain, you don’t leave the house without an umbrella. Much like how that umbrella protects us from rain, we can read Ephesians 6:10-20 about what the Bible calls "the Armor of God" that protects our spirit, mind, and heart. 

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power... 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. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." 

This passage teaches us how to pray for God to protect us. Below is what each piece of God's armor represents and what it means in your life: 

The Belt of Truth around our waist — The belt of truth is where we store our knowledge of God. 

The Breastplate of Righteousness — We have this piece of armor when we do what is right in God's eyes.

Feet Fitted with the Gospel of Peace — This is remembering the gospel (The Good News of how Jesus gave us eternal life) and maintaining a readiness to share it with others. 

The Shield of Faith — This covers our doubts and reminds us to have faith in God. We must remember that He is faithful to us. 

The Helmet of Salvation — The confidence in our salvation (how Jesus saved us) protects our mind and head against the lies of the enemy. 

Sword of the Spirit — This is the Bible, the Word of God. We must sharpen our knowledge by regularly studying God's Word. When we know God's Word, we stand on His truth and are not easily shaken. 

Each day holds a new opportunity to cover ourselves and our loved ones in prayer and protection. 

PRAYER

Dear God,

Thank You for equipping me with armor to live with strength and protection. May I put on the full armor of Christ every day and be a blessing to those around me. You are a good Father in whom I can trust. In Jesus’ name, Amen.