Looking For a Source of Strength? Wear God’s Armor!
A devotional by Dr. Gladys Childs
“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” —Ephesians 6:13 (ESV)
Have you ever considered cloaking yourself with God's armor through prayer?
It is a potent practice that I use for myself and my family. A certain strength comes from envisioning the armor being put on each morning, setting the tone for the day—the assurance that God's protection enables me to face whatever comes my way.
The armor of God is crucial for Christians because it symbolizes God's spiritual protection and strength to believers. In Ephesians 6:10-18, Apostle Paul uses the imagery of armor to illustrate how we can stand firm against spiritual forces of evil. Each piece represents different aspects of our faith and readiness to face challenges. Imagine each piece of the armor of God as essential equipment for a soldier in a spiritual battle.
Here's a deeper look at what each piece represents:
1. Belt of Truth: This signifies more than just honesty; it's about aligning our lives with God's truth (John 8:31-32). Living in truth makes us less vulnerable to deception and confusion. It secures our understanding of God's Word and protects us from being misled by falsehoods. Just as a belt holds everything together, truth holds our spiritual lives together. It's about living honestly and in alignment with God's Word.
2. Breastplate of Righteousness: Beyond moral purity, this breastplate represents the righteousness we receive through faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). It guards our hearts from feelings of guilt, shame, and condemnation. It's not about our goodness but Christ's righteousness covering us completely.
3. Shoes of Readiness: These symbolize our preparedness to share the gospel of peace (1 Peter 3:15). Rooted in the Gospel, we are ready to stand firm in our faith and bring God's message of reconciliation and hope to others.
4. Shield of Faith: This shield protects us from the enemy's attacks of doubt, fear, and temptation (Hebrews 11:1). It's not blind faith but confident trust in God's character and promises, deflecting the lies and schemes of the evil one.
5. Helmet of Salvation: This helmet guards our minds against doubts and false beliefs (Romans 8:1). It reminds us of our identity in Christ and the assurance of our salvation, protecting our thoughts and keeping us focused on God's truth.
6. Sword of the Spirit (Word of God): More than just Scripture knowledge, this sword is our offensive weapon (Hebrews 4:12). It's the living and active Word of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, used to discern truth, combat falsehoods, and effectively minister to others. It's not just knowing Scripture but applying it in our lives and using it to combat lies and temptation.
Putting on the Armor of God is not a one-time event but a daily practice of spiritual discipline and reliance on God's strength. It involves intentional steps to align ourselves with God's truth and protection and daily spiritual practices: prayer, studying Scripture, walking in obedience to God's Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance. It's about being spiritually equipped to face life's challenges with courage, wisdom, and faith in God.
Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, please help us as we seek to put on the armor of God daily. May we realize the benefits of this practice for ourselves and those around us. Help us live according to Your Word and be the light to those around us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.
Song of Reflection: “Head to Toe (The Armor of God Song)” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.
1. Belt of Truth: This signifies more than just honesty; it's about aligning our lives with God's truth (John 8:31-32). Living in truth makes us less vulnerable to deception and confusion. It secures our understanding of God's Word and protects us from being misled by falsehoods. Just as a belt holds everything together, truth holds our spiritual lives together. It's about living honestly and in alignment with God's Word.
2. Breastplate of Righteousness: Beyond moral purity, this breastplate represents the righteousness we receive through faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). It guards our hearts from feelings of guilt, shame, and condemnation. It's not about our goodness but Christ's righteousness covering us completely.
3. Shoes of Readiness: These symbolize our preparedness to share the gospel of peace (1 Peter 3:15). Rooted in the Gospel, we are ready to stand firm in our faith and bring God's message of reconciliation and hope to others.
4. Shield of Faith: This shield protects us from the enemy's attacks of doubt, fear, and temptation (Hebrews 11:1). It's not blind faith but confident trust in God's character and promises, deflecting the lies and schemes of the evil one.
5. Helmet of Salvation: This helmet guards our minds against doubts and false beliefs (Romans 8:1). It reminds us of our identity in Christ and the assurance of our salvation, protecting our thoughts and keeping us focused on God's truth.
6. Sword of the Spirit (Word of God): More than just Scripture knowledge, this sword is our offensive weapon (Hebrews 4:12). It's the living and active Word of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, used to discern truth, combat falsehoods, and effectively minister to others. It's not just knowing Scripture but applying it in our lives and using it to combat lies and temptation.
Putting on the Armor of God is not a one-time event but a daily practice of spiritual discipline and reliance on God's strength. It involves intentional steps to align ourselves with God's truth and protection and daily spiritual practices: prayer, studying Scripture, walking in obedience to God's Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance. It's about being spiritually equipped to face life's challenges with courage, wisdom, and faith in God.
Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, please help us as we seek to put on the armor of God daily. May we realize the benefits of this practice for ourselves and those around us. Help us live according to Your Word and be the light to those around us. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.
Song of Reflection: “Head to Toe (The Armor of God Song)” by Christy Nockels. Listen to it here.
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Author Bio:
Dr. Gladys Childs is an author, speaker, religion professor, pastor's wife, and mom helping others be F.R.E.E. to Thrive© for the abundant life God has for them. She serves as Chaplain at Texas Wesleyan University and the Women’s Director at LifePoint Fellowship. She brings 25 years of experience and knowledge to her ministry.
Gladys holds a Ph.D. in Foundations of Education, a Master’s in Religious Education, a Master of Divinity, and a B.A. with a double major in Counseling and Psychology. Also, she is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church.
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Connect with Gladys:
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