Let's explore the armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:10-18 (WEB):
"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 wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the Good News of peace, besides all these, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints."
The armor of God is not a physical armor, but rather a spiritual one. It is a metaphorical representation of the spiritual protections and weapons we have as believers in Jesus Christ. Each piece of the armor represents a critical aspect of our spiritual life:
1. **Utility Belt of Truth**: This represents the truth of God's Word and the gospel message. It is the foundation upon which we stand and it keeps us grounded in reality.
2. **Breastplate of Righteousness**: This symbolizes the righteousness that comes from faith in Jesus Christ. It protects our hearts and keeps us pure before God.
3. **Feet Fitted with the Good News of Peace**: This signifies our readiness to share the gospel of peace with others and to walk in the path of peace that God has prepared for us.
4. **Shield of Faith**: Faith is our defense against the attacks of the enemy. It allows us to stand firm in our beliefs and trust in God's promises.
5. **Helmet of Salvation**: This represents the assurance of our salvation, which protects our minds and gives us hope.
6. **Sword of the Spirit**: This is the Word of God, our only offensive weapon. It is powerful, living, and active, able to pierce even the deepest parts of our souls.
So, while the armor of God is not physical, it is very real and necessary for our spiritual protection and warfare. We need to put it on daily by living in righteousness, knowing the truth, having God's peace, exercising faith, being assured of our salvation, and knowing the Word of God.
Let's pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, putting on the full armor of God. We buckle the belt of truth around our waists, believing in the truth of Your Word and the gospel message. We put on the breastplate of righteousness, trusting in the righteousness that comes from faith in Jesus Christ. We fit our feet with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, eager to share Your Good News with others. We take up the shield of faith, believing in Your promises and standing firm in our faith. We put on the helmet of salvation, rejoicing in the assurance of our salvation. We take the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, and we pray in the Spirit at all times.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
It is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God. There is no other name by which we can be saved.