Ancient Words For Today - 27
The apostle Paul wrote a letter to the believers at the church at Ephesus. In his closing remarks he instructed them to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. He went on to explain the spiritual armor and weapons that God had provided them to fight against, and be victorious in, the spiritual warfare they were engaged in. Nearly 2000 years later, believers still are engaged in the battle against evil and the spiritual rulers of darkness in this world (Satan and the army of fallen angels he commands). Paul's words are still applicable for us today, so let's review what he said:
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole Armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Wherefore take unto you the whole Armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,
and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all
perseverance and supplication for all saints; Ephesians 6:10-18
As soldiers of Christ, It is important that we remember each day to put on the spiritual armor He has provided us. We cannot successfully defend against the enemy's attacks and arsenal of spiritual weapons without it. Paul mentions 5 pieces of defensive armor and two offensive weapons, the latter being the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and prayer. Christians must learn to use them skillfully and employ them daily to stay on track, remain loyal to God, and serve Him by carrying out his will. It is most important the we each follow God's orders immediately and explicitly, even if we don't understand the greater overall purpose God has in mind.
Remember that we are not in the battle alone. God, our Commander-in-Chief, is with us, commanding the entire army of believers in the war against evil and to do good. The battle plan works most effectively when each soldier performs their assignment down to the last detail and in accordance with God's timing. The entire army of believers are to work together, in concert, like a polished symphony orchestra. Each member needs to be proficient with their instrument, well practiced and prepared to play their part flawlessly. But they must keep their eyes fixed on the conductor to know the exact timing of when to start and end their particular portions of the music and the precise tempo, mood and volume through every movement of the composition. This insures that the symphony will properly reflect the intent of the composer.
In a like manner, we Christian Soldiers must keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus, the captain of the armies of heaven and the Head of the body of believers on earth, watching and listening for his direction! When we do so we will be able to play our part in His beautiful symphony, reflecting precisely His message of love and salvation to those who hear it.
God bless you, protect you, and give you victory as you march in His army.