Over the next few days, we are going to take a fresh look at a very familiar passage that gives us instruction on how to live and prepare for the unseen battle going on around the world. Here is our scripture passage we will be drawing from:
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Therefore, 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.
Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.
For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.
In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.
Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.6.10-18.NLT
Paul gives us a description of the unseen battle every follower of Christ will encounter. He takes time, using the imagery of the soldier's battle gear of the day, to describe the essential gear we need to navigate this in our lives.
Reflection
As we consider this unseen battleground, Paul gives us a clear starting point: A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
We don’t approach this unseen battle in our own strength. Instead, we lean into the presence and power of the living God. We come to him in submission, surrender, and repentance.
We receive the great gifts of unconditional love, forgiveness of sin, and wisdom to live by.
The Holy Spirit is with us.
We are never alone in this battle.
Encouragement
Bring your own life into the presence of God today through the precious gift and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The Holy Spirit is with you.
The strength we need today comes from the Lord.
The power needed for the relationships and tasks at hand is also from the Lord.
God is our starting point.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for being our starting point.
Thank you that we do not have to face this unseen battle on our own.
Your strength and power are exactly what we need. Thank you.
In your name, Jesus, we pray,
Amen
Ed McDowell