Sent With Purpose: A 14-Day Devotional to Prepare for Short-Term Mission Chikamu

It's crucial to remember that your upcoming journey is not just a physical endeavor but also a spiritual one. In Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV), the apostle Paul reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare and the need for spiritual armor:

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Be Strong in the Lord

The foundation of your mission trip, just like any endeavor of the Christ-follower, must be rooted in the strength of the Lord. Later in this passage, Paul will write that you must also “put on the full armor of God”, but he starts here because you first need internal strength. A weak body that can barely stand doesn’t make a good soldier just because it’s clothed in good, strong armor. Likewise, without strength inside the armor—spiritual strength in the Lord—you aren’t ready for battle.

As you prepare to go out into the world, draw your strength not from your abilities or knowledge but from the mighty power of God. The source of your strength is not your own, but the indomitable strength of the Lord. Lean on Him in prayer, seek His guidance, and trust that He will sustain you through every trial and tribulation you may face.

Put on the Full Armor of God

Now, let’s talk about armor. Paul's imagery of the full armor of God serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual protection and readiness you need on the mission field. God gives you a full set of equipment. This armor is of God both in the sense that it is from Him, and in the sense that it is His actual armor. In the Old Testament, it is the Lord who wears the armor (Isaiah 59:17). He now shares that armor with us.

Just as a soldier prepares for battle, you must equip yourself with God's armor to stand against the spiritual warfare you may enter into. Each piece of the armor represents a spiritual attribute or tool that will help you withstand spiritual attacks and temptations. Make sure to daily "put on" this armor through prayer and intentional reliance on God's truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and His Word.

The Spiritual Forces of Evil

The spiritual forces of evil can manifest in various ways—spiritual oppression, strongholds of false beliefs, and opposition to the Gospel message. Your mission is to confront these forces with the power of God's Word, prayer, and unwavering faith in Christ.

People are not your enemies; they are individuals who need the saving grace of Christ. In your interactions with people and communities, rely on the authority of Jesus Christ to break the chains of spiritual bondage and bring freedom to captives. Remember, you are simply a vessel with a story to tell of how Jesus saved you. You are empowered to overcome the enemy's schemes through Him.

As you embark on your mission trip, be strong in the Lord, put on the full armor of God, recognize darkness, and stand firm against the spiritual forces of evil. Remember that you are not alone in this war, for the Lord goes before you, equipping you to be a beacon of hope and redemption in a world that desperately needs His light. Begin to pray for this now.