Is Your Armor On?

Mark Jones

READY

“Put on all of God’s armor . . .” — Ephesians 6:11a

SET

One of the athletes I admired growing up was my older brother, Matthew. He was a decent athlete in each sport he played, but he was very good at baseball. He played the position of catcher. I was so impressed that I tried my hand at catching when I was in Little League. I did not like catching!

So, you have to be in a hard position while being alert to where players are while having baseballs hurled at you. Thankfully, you have pads to wear as a catcher.

In the Bible, we are instructed to wear gear. It is called the “Armor of God” in Ephesians 6. Paul tells us about it because, deep down, our battles as Christians are not physical.

So, what is the “Armor of God”?

• It’s the body armor of God’s righteousness: Only His holiness can guard us against evil.

• It’s the belt of truth: It is holding on to and doing what is right that helps keep the body armor in place.

• It’s the shield of faith: When the Devil shoots his fiery arrows at us, our trust in the Lord will help defend us.

• It’s the sword of the Spirit: Not only does the Word of God give us the truth, but it is important for our protection.

Living in our world today as a believer in Jesus Christ is tough. It is awesome that our heavenly Father knows this and has given this kind of instruction to help us through each day.

Let’s start today to put on this armor and to help others to do the same.

GO  

• Would you want to be a catcher if you had the chance? Why or why not?  
• How can you help others to put on their armor?

WORKOUT

Ephesians 6:10–18; Matthew 6:33

OVERTIME

"Lord, through Jesus, You have given me so much, and I thank You for that. Help me to put this armor on to be protected, and I can honor You with my life. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen."