The Full Armor of God

Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:14-17 NRSV

I put on the full armor of God every day during my devotional time. But for me, it isn't just a bit of metal or even a safety harness. Each part of this armor not only protects but also demands something from me at the same time.

It means that I have to stick to the truth even when it hurts.

I am committed to being in right relationship with God.

I move with the intent of sharing the gospel of peace rather than repentance.

I place around me a shield, knowing that people will say and do things to hurt me but I will remain steadfast in who I am - I won't be wounded and I won't strike out in anger.

I acknowledge God's claim on me as God's child.

And I have a weapon that is sharp yet brings new life to all whom it pierces.

I stand firm with God's help while also being accountable to God's holy power in my daily life.

God, place on me your full armor: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, whatever will help my feet share the message of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. In Christ's name. Amen.

Question of the day: Will you take up the full armor of God everyday?

Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims

You need help!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything to stand firm. Ephesians 6: 10-13 NRSV

I can do it myself.

Those of us with small children have probably heard this often. Those of us with even older children may not hear this but see it in action on a daily basis.

And I am truly guilty of trying to do it (all) myself.

I would rather get it done my way, in my time without having to ask for any help. Also, I like doing it without appearing weak or helpless.

But Paul point us in the right direction: toward God and God's power.

This is not a battle you can fight on your own, with your own strength. No matter how physically fit you are, you will need God's power and God's protection to withstand what is truly dangerous. You may possibly not put much stock in the devil's power. Nevertheless, we all need God's strength to be the people whom God calls to carry out God's mission and message in the world.

Don't try doing this on your own.

You need help: God's help.

God, we need your strength, your full armor and your power. We cannot do this on our own. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Question of the day: What battles do you need help with right now?

Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims