Have you studied the Armor of God? If not, today is the day! You will be SO encouraged by the weapons God provides for everyday life. The calling card of Satan is deceit, but God's Word trumps him every single time. So, if you are like me, and think of yourself as an everyday girl who loves Jesus, dig in and learn about the different pieces of the armor!
I recorded a three-part podcast series on the armor of God and my heart was encouraged by the goodness of God to give us a visual picture of the spiritual weapons available to us. (Click here to listen to Podcast 1, Podcast 2) I hope you will listen to the podcasts because each one is full of application. It is good to know that God offers protection from the top of our head to the bottom of our feet!
Here is a little teaser!
Belt of Truth: The soldier put on the belt first, and it was always the the only piece worn at all times. The calling card of Satan is deceit. Therefore, we must know the truth, live the truth, and share the truth! God's truth must be at the center of our lives. It is through the Word of God that we are set free from the lies of the enemy. Truth is the path to freedom. Daily we can say, "God, I am going to choose your way. Today, it is all about Your will and Your way for my life.
Breastplate of Righteousness: The breastplate guarded the vital organs. The heart is the well spring of life. Thankfully we are protected by the righteousness of Jesus and His finished work on the cross. We will never be righteous apart from Jesus because He gave us His righteousness in exchange for our sinfulness. Through Jesus, we are chosen, forgiven, loved, seen, known, valued, and empowered.
Sandals of Peace The sandals were made for fighting and marching. The best part... they became more comfortable as the soldier wore them. We must put on gospel shoes which is a gospel mindset. The outcome is we will take Jesus into every conversation and situation we face. The outcome will be peace. This peace protects us from the traps of the enemy.
Shield of Faith The shield was used to defend the entire body, including the back. (Hello! God's got our back!) Daily we need to walk by faith. Of course, this requires us to step out in faith. Faith only grows as we use it. Satan attacks with doubt, but God's Word shields us from the blow. When temptation comes, faith keeps us steadfast in Jesus. Faith is a gift from God. Faith is the realization that God is able! In response, we know that we can't, but God can!
Helmet of Salvation The helmet protects the head or brain which represents our thinking. What do you know to be true? How does this knowledge direct our lives? How does your position in Christ impact the way you battle? Do you battle from a place of victory or defeat? We can know God. We know that we are saved. And, we can know the truth!
Sword of the Spirit This was the offensive part of the armor. Waving it served as a word of warning to the enemy. In the hands of a skilled soldier, the sword was a powerful weapon. God's Word is our sword. It is living, active, powerful, and sharp. Jesus used the Bible against Satan. The sword both protects and destroy the enemy. Psalm 119: 165, "Great peace have they who love your law; and nothing can make them stumble."
On the third podcast, Bethany and I talk about our favorite piece of the armor. You will have to listen to hear our thoughts! I would love to know which piece of the armor means the most to you and why! Sweet sister put on the full armor of God so you can stand strong against the schemes of the enemy!
Much Love!
Andrea
