August 22, 2022

Ephesians 6:10-24 (HCSB)
Christian Warfare
10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. 13 This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. 14 Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, 15 and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. 16 In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. 18 Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. 19 Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel. 20 For this I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough in Him to speak as I should. Paul’s Farewell 21 Tychicus, our dearly loved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me so that you may be informed. 22 I am sending him to you for this very reason, to let you know how we are and to encourage your hearts. 23 Peace to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who have undying love for our Lord Jesus Christ.

Garnett Cothern
This passage is certainly a comparison – a PHYSICAL and SEEN battle and a SPIRITUAL and UNSEEN battle. Oh, you can see the effects of both. If we have little or no ammo in a physical battle, we are quite vulnerable. Similarly, if we have no protection in our spiritual warfare, we are also very vulnerable. Why is it most people realize their need for physical protection but have little regard for spiritual protection? How much attention do we give to our tools in spiritual battle? What about Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Grace, Faith, Salvation, Holy Spirit, and Prayer? When the “Evil One” attacks, as he repeatedly does, what tools do we use? As believers, all of them are at our disposal and each is very effective. I don’t know about you, but I face battles every day. As a human, as a sinner, I fail many times to use HIS resources for my battles. If you are like me, as a follower of Christ, I need to ask for forgiveness and go back to the basics. Somewhat like a soldier, I need to clean up, get my gear prepared, and be battle ready – it’s coming! Let’s also encourage others in their battles. Our support might be just what they need.

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