“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Ephesians 6:11-12 NKJV
The scripture tells us that we fight not against flesh and blood. I love how plainly the Message translates this portion of scripture.
“And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.”
Ephesians 6:10-18 MSG
We have an adversary. We also have a mission. In order to fulfill our God given purpose we must use the tools at our finger tips. If we fight this battle with our own strength and our own weapons we will end up tired, discouraged and defeated. His word lays out all we need in order to be successful in the mission he has called us to fulfill. Truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirt may all sound like cliche words that are used to pump up a crowd, but they are far more than a motivational tool. These weapons are a lifeline. This armor is a sure defense against the tactics of the world.
Whatever you maybe up against today, He has prepared your defense. Put on the whole armor of God! Use the sword of the spirit, which is His word to strengthen yourself and sever the lies of this world. We have all we need in Him to accomplish the purpose he has for each of us. Put on the whole armor of God and fulfill your calling today!
That Could Preach 