Introduction
We have defined the battle, identified the foes, and established our position of victory. Now it’s time for the “how-to.” The primary way we fight the good fight is by putting on the full armor of God.
Ephesians 6:13 commands us to “put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.”
This armor is not literal metal; it is a description of the very life of Christ that we are called to live. Putting on the armor is a daily, intentional commitment to abiding in Him.
1. The Belt of Truth
“Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth.” (Eph. 6:14a)
The belt was the foundational piece of a soldier’s gear; it held everything else together. Practical Meaning: Truth holds your life together. The enemy’s primary weapon is lies. If you are not grounded in absolute truth—the truth of God’s Word and the truth of your identity in Christ—you will quickly crumble. Putting on the Belt of Truth means living honestly before God and others, and constantly checking your beliefs against Scripture.
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness
“…and the body armor of God’s righteousness.” (Eph. 6:14b)
The breastplate protects the vital organs—the heart and lungs. Practical Meaning: Righteousness protects your core life. There are two kinds of righteousness:
- Imputed Righteousness: The perfect righteousness of Christ given to you the moment you trusted Him. This is your shield against the enemy’s accusations and shame.
- Practical Righteousness: Your daily choices to live according to God’s moral standards (purity, honesty, integrity). Choosing to live righteously protects you from the enemy finding a foothold through sin.
3. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
“For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.” (Eph. 6:15)
Shoes provide stability and readiness for movement. Practical Meaning: The peace of the Gospel grounds your steps. You are prepared to go and share the Good News, knowing that you carry a message of peace, not anxiety or fear. When you live in the settled peace that your relationship with God is secure, the enemy cannot easily shake your steps.
4. The Shield of Faith
“In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.” (Eph. 6:16)
The shield protects the entire body. Practical Meaning: Faith is your active trust in God’s character and promises. The “fiery arrows” are those incoming attacks: lies, accusations, temptations, and sudden fears. When you hold up the Shield of Faith, you are saying, “I choose to believe what God says is true, regardless of what I see or feel.” This trust extinguishes every arrow.
5. The Helmet of Salvation
“Put on salvation as your helmet.” (Eph. 6:17a)
The helmet protects the head—the mind. Practical Meaning: The assurance of salvation protects your thinking. The enemy constantly attacks your mind with doubt and confusion about your standing with God. When you are certain that you are saved, forgiven, and eternally secure, you guard yourself against those mental assaults. The Helmet of Salvation allows you to think clearly, knowing the outcome is already secured.
6. The Sword of the Spirit (Offensive Weapon)
“…and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Eph. 6:17b)
The Sword is the only offensive weapon. Practical Meaning: God’s Word is our tool for spiritual combat. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He used the Word, saying, “It is written…” The Sword is used to actively cut through lies and take down strongholds of human reasoning. We must know the Word, speak the Word, and apply the Word.
Practical Steps/Takeaways
Putting on the armor is a conscious act of faith every morning. Use this simple guide:
- Belt: Commit to walking in truth and honesty today.
- Breastplate: Rely on Christ’s righteousness, and choose to live righteously today.
- Shoes: Be grounded in the Gospel’s peace. Look for opportunities to share that peace.
- Shield: Identify one area where you are tempted to doubt God, and choose to activate faith.
- Helmet: Reaffirm the certainty of your salvation and reject any condemning thought.
- Sword: Read, meditate on, and speak a verse of Scripture today to combat a specific lie.
Conclusion
The armor of God is the way of the Warrior. It is our preparation, our protection, and our power. Suit up, stand firm, and live in the victory Christ has provided.
