(📷: Elizabeth J. Cain)
Friday Devotional — September 1, 2017
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 (ESV)
We live in a volatile time, there is no doubt about it. We must always remember what it says in Ephesians 6:12, “for we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places”.
We must first identify our enemy, who we are fighting against, before we can decide what armor and weapons we will need. The Bible leaves no question about who we are at war with, “the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (v. 12).
Just as the Bible leaves no doubt about who we wrestle with, it also leaves no doubt as to what armor to take up against evil.
“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you will be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:13-18 (ESV)
Do not attempt to fight this fight alone. Take up the ‘whole armor of God’ and stand for Jesus Christ. Confess Him as Lord and Savior. Let Jesus equip you to fight life’s battles in His power, and with His armor!
Father God, I pray for the spiritual armor of God spoken of in Ephesians 6. Equip me to do battle for You, Lord Jesus. Train me in Your ways. Bless and protect all who read this post. Bless those who share it. Help us to resist the enemy in Your power, in Your strength, and in Your Armor, Jesus. Bless and protect us all. Bless Your ministry Lord Jesus. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen!
Rev. Christopher B. Cain
Minister of Evangelism and Discipleship
Alive Ministries USA