December 8th~Armed for Battle

Ephesians 5:15-6:23

Colossians 1:1-23

We finished Paul’s letter to the Ephesians and opened his letter to the Colossians. While much of what we read in Colossians was introductory, we did encounter one of the most profound pas- sages in all the Bible, detailing the doctrines of Christ (1:15-22). For example, Paul wrote, “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before God made anything at all and is supreme over all creation... For God in all His fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and by Him God reconciled everything to Himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of His blood on the cross. This includes you...” These truths are incredible and would take weeks to unpack. The mysteries of Christ are marvelous to consider!

However, the Lord reminded me today of the source of our earthly troubles. We live in an evil world that is under evil management; and the frustrations that we face in the physical realm are often caused by forces in the spiritual realm. We cannot battle spiritual problems with physical solutions; instead, we must face spiritual foes with spiritual weapons. Enemies with spiritual power cannot be thwarted by human strength or wisdom; we must utilize a power greater than ourselves.

Paul said it this way, “Be strong with the Lord’s mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against the strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world...” (Ephesians 6:10-12).

We are all familiar with the armor of God, but consider today what each piece of armor represents and why it is important. We must be girded with truth, because the enemy will fill our head with lies. We must robe ourselves with the righteousness of Christ, because Satan will accuse us of all our unrighteous deeds. We must be anchored in peace, because he will invent many distractions and discouragements.

We must guard ourselves with faith in God, for the Devil will cause us to doubt God’s existence, His goodness, His plan, and His provision. We must cling to our salvation, our freedom from sin and death, because Satan will tempt us in every way possible, doing whatever necessary to keep us inactive or ineffective. We must hold fast the words of God, which the enemy fears and respects. Finally, we must always be alert in prayer, straining out the myriad of voices around us and striving, instead, to listen to the voice and wisdom of God.

Daily Reflection

What are some of the ways that we try to battle spiritual opponents with physical weapons? Why are these methods ineffective?

Putting on the armor of God is easier said than done. What does this look like in reality? What is the process? What daily steps should you take?

BiAY.org | Day 342 — 23 Days to Go