Armor of God: Learning to Walk in the Power and Protection of Our LordSample

Week 1

Read: Ephesians 6:10–18

SOAP: Ephesians 6:10–11

Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

Into the Text

I know many people don't like to talk about it, but whether we realize it or not, we have a real enemy, and he doesn't play nice.

Let me guess, was it hard to find the time to start this study today? Has today been a little crazier than normal? Have you been getting texts, calls, or interruptions as you've tried to slow down and spend time with God? Friend, none of the interruptions are accidents or coincidences. It is all part of the plan.

You have been studied. You might not realize this, but Satan knows your past, your mistakes, and which temptations make you buckle at the knees. He has a strategic plan to keep you from fulfilling your God-given purpose and will do everything he can to take you out.

So, how do we stand against invisible attacks that are intentionally aimed at our destruction and the destruction of those we love? We stand in the strength of God's power, not our own. This is a spiritual battle that, at times, can move into the physical realm but is always fought with spiritual weapons. Make no mistake, spiritual warfare is real, but so are the weapons God has equipped us with to fight this present darkness.

Let's suit up in the armor our Father has given us. We will no longer be naive to the invisible battle that rages all around. We will no longer be victims of Satan's plans. No, we will stand clothed in the armor God has equipped us with for our battles, remembering that the war has already been won. We fight from a place of victory, not defeat.

Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for providing the armor I need to stand firm in the face of the battles that come my way. Help me to draw my strength from You so I can withstand Satan's attacks. Give me spiritual eyes to see what is really going on so I will know how to respond. Teach me how to effectively use the spiritual weapons You have given to me.