The Sword
Of The Spirit
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the
strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able
to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against
enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities,
against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual
forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of
God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done
everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around
your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet
put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all
of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all
the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword
of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer
and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplications
for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Although we all remember a shepherd boy who
used a sling and a single smooth stone with great success in his encounter with
a giant, few of us would have the courage to face violent threats armed with
such puny protection. But every day, although we are often ill-prepared, we do
face a threat. We fight against an enemy we cannot see.
Each day we must put on the armor of God – the
breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, and the sword of the Spirit,
which is God’s Word. Preparation and protection are
the key to winning spiritual battles. Fight as if winning the spiritual battle depended
on you, then pray and know that God will give you the victory.
Spiritual victory comes
only to those who are prepared for battle.
Our Daily
Bread
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