Put on the Full Armor of God
— Not the armor of men, for it is not strong enough
— The Full Armor, not just the comfortable pieces – any less will leave you vulnerable
Put on the Helmet of Salvation
— Protect your mind with the knowledge of your security and the price Christ paid for it
Put on the Belt of Truth
— God’s Word is truth, Jesus is the Word, and He holds all things together
Put on the Breastplate of Righteousness
— Guard your heart and soul with Jesus’ righteousness, which is bulletproof
— Our righteousness is as filthy rags, and offers no protection
Wear the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
— The Gospel depends on God’s activity, so it cannot be pushed backward
— The ground we gain cannot be recaptured, and as Jesus is our Peace, it will not be surrendered
— The enemy, though he may bruise the heel, is mortally crushed underfoot by God’s sacrificial grace
Carry the Shield of Faith
— The only thing the enemy can throw at us is doubt & accusation
— Faith in God dispels both, and leaves the enemy no ground on which to stand
— God is good, and wise, and has proven His exceeding love for us – He has left no room for doubt
— Jesus paid the full penalty on our behalf – as we accept that, His blood has left no room for accusation
— The shield can be shared, to offer protection to a fellow soldier
Carry the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God
— The sword is the only offensive weapon
— Jesus is the Word – lift Him and He will take care of the offensive work
— He knows precisely how and where to cut, both to defeat the enemy and to bring healing