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

Read: 1 John 4:4–6

SOAP: 1 John 4:6

We are from God; the person who knows God listens to us, but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this, we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of deceit.

Into the Text

In order to know what is true, we must know God's Word. Truth can only be found in God, the One who is truth Himself. God's truth must guard our lives. Putting on the belt of truth every day is so important as we go out into the world and engage with an enemy who attacks with lies.

The spirit of deceit has always been in the world, ever since the serpent spoke to Eve in the garden. He deceived her by questioning God’s words and making her doubt if God really wanted the best for her life. If we are not grounded in God's Word, making it the foundation of our lives and allowing it to penetrate our minds and hearts, we will be susceptible to the changing tides of public opinion and lose our footing.

Who we allow to speak into our lives is so important. Who we listen to is who we allow to influence us. When we have a close relationship with God and know what He has said, we are able to recognize the voice of truth and distinguish it from the voice of falsehood. This is crucial in our spiritual journey as we face the attacks of the enemy who tries to deceive us with lies and false teachings. When we are rooted in God's truth, we are able to recognize the spirit of truth and reject the spirit of falsehood.

Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, help me listen to Your voice and obey it. Give me discernment and teach me to listen to what you say and believe it with all my heart. Help me block out any lies that the enemy aims at my heart and mind. Amen.