Put on the Full Armor of God

First century Christians got to see plenty of armor on the enemy...the Roman soldiers.  They probably coveted all that armor when they had none for themselves.  They were intimidated and persecuted by these men with swords, shields, helmets and breastplates.They probably thought, "Aw...if only we had that...we would again be in power.

Paul uses this vivid example from their everyday life to bring home a point about the "spiritual battle" they fight.  He refocuses their attention Ephesians 6:12 ,"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood."  It is like Paul saying to them, Your battle is not against the Romans.  Your battle is not against your neighboring country.  It is against evil powers that that work themselves out to steer people against God. It is the schemes of the devil himself!!!

So Paul tells his fellow Christians in Ephesus (and you and me).  Our battle is to take a stand for God. Four times he tells us to "STAND".  He also tells us not to go out into this battle unprepared.  He tells us God will fully armour us with His Armor (His truth, His righteousness, his salvation for us, Faith in Him)....not our armor (polished presentations, seminary degrees, powerpoint presentations, communication skills, fancy illustrations, christian activities and programs, fancy life centers and church buildings)  We think it is our slick methods and worldly schemes that will get us through...but it is God's power.

Friends, we simple must let God fully equip us and trust that He is our protection and His truth is our sword.
Many days before I get out of bed, I simple ask God to equip me for the day ahead with His armor.  It is a simple pray...but He is the Almighty God.