Throughout this year, there has been one message that seems to continuously pop up. Honestly, it’s one that I’ve heard many many many times since I began following Jesus six years ago. But this past year in particular it seem to have been unavoidable. It’s the lesson that comes from Ephesians 6:10-20, The Armor of God. Each time I heard it, whether it be a sermon, a devotional with my team or squad, no matter what unique angle the lesson took, the message remained the same; Put on the Full Armor of God. <<Insert emoji Thumbs Up sign here>>
I have to admit, it got to a point where I would be tempted…or actually would, roll my eyes when I realized the scripture being taught on. I mean, come on, how many times does this lesson have to be pounded into my head? This morning I attended an English service and as the pastor began I quickly saw him swerving to that same old passage. Ugh. I was about to tune out and day dream, cuz obviously I already know everything there is to know about it…right? {Say that last phrase with heavy sarcasm please} But then the Lord asked me a question. He reminded me that whenever a word or phrase is repeated multiple times in Scripture it is because it needs to be paid attention to and considered carefully and fully. So He asked me, “Why would you not pay attention to and consider this message carefully and fully if I keep bringing it to you?” SHOOT DANG.
I brought down every wall, as much stubbornness as I could and gave my undivided attention to what God was saying through the pastor. And with new ears, willing and open ears, I heard the passage in regard to this past year, and saw it applied to life as ministry as I never had. Verse 14 starts with the words “Stand firm then,” and to stand firm you have to put on the full armor of God. And this is what the Lord gave me today>>
* Without the Belt of Truth I wouldn’t have enough confindence in my identity as a child of God to have stepped out in boldness and do half the things I was called to do this year.
* Without the Breastplate of Righteousness I wouldn’t of been able to withstand and uphold a Christ-like character in the midst of injustice I saw this year.
* Without the Shoes Fitted for Peace I wouldn’t of been able to remain in constant community this year.
* Without the Shield of Faith I wouldn’t of been able to remain strong and persevere after seeing the levels of hurting, hate and poverty this year.
* Without the Helmet of Salvation I would’ve subcomed to hoplessness and the lie that this is all pointless.
* Without the Sword of the Spirit I wouldn’t have the Word to speak Truth and Life to the ones God set in my path this year.
By no means was I perfect at keeping The Armor on at all times during this year. In fact, I can think of more times than not that I failed at it. But it finally sunk into my head today just how important it really is to put it on. Without it, we cannot stand firm in this faith. And friends, we have to do everything we possibly can to stand firm. This world is too harsh and heavy to withstand on our own. Pray for one another, pray for yourself, be diligent in putting the armor on. It matters. It’s important. I love you guys and I’m praying for a united Church that stands firm together in the midst of the Kingdom.
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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breaastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the falming arrows of the evil one.Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:10-17
