Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

- Ephesians 6:11

What does it mean to put on the armor of God?

“Putting on the armor of God” means we arm ourselves with God’s ways so that we can withstand the enemy’s attacks.

First and foremost, we must know God’s Word to understand what He expects of us and how we should live. The Bible gives us the wisdom we need to navigate life. It is called the belt of truth.

The next piece of armor is the breastplate of righteousness. Isn’t it wonderful that righteousness guards our very hearts?

When we obey God’s ways, we save ourselves so much unnecessary grief and suffering. As we follow Jesus and conduct our lives the way He would, we behave differently from the world.

Next, Ephesians tells us to put the readiness of the gospel of peace on our feet. Since our feet carry us places, it seems so fitting that the very gospel of peace should guard them so we will be ready to share Christ with others wherever we go.

Then, Ephesians tells us to take up our shield of faith in all circumstances. Faith isn’t something we have because we are believers. It is an action, a choice to believe in God and trust Him to work things out for us. Therefore, Scripture tells us to essentially pick up our shield of faith because it will protect us from the flaming darts of our enemy, Satan.

Last, we are to guard our heads and thoughts with the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. We know the blood of Jesus bought our salvation. Through Christ, we can have a relationship with God and an eternity with Him. Because of Jesus, we can live this life and endure its difficulties because we know we will spend eternity with God.

The sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, is mighty against Satan. He has to flee in God’s name. Having the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live Christ-centered lives and triumph over Satan.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for giving me what I need daily to trust and obey you. Be with me today as I seek you and strive to live according to your Word. Amen.

With Love,
Sherry Shepherd