“Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:13, Nasb
Last time we ventured into the wardrobe of God’s armor, we considered “Who’s Our Enemy?” and determined the following:
Scripture describes our struggle as that which involves plural entities: ruler(s), power(s), and force(s). We’re talking evil spirits and evil powers–an entire entourage of demonic darkness. Ephesians 2:2 refers to satan as “the prince of the power of the air.” In other words, he’s the leader of many. And we’re the target.
Since we’re the enemy’s target, our faithful God has provided protective gear. Yet here’s the kicker: we have to put it on. We consciously must decide to wear the armor God provides, or we’ll indeed face our enemy in various degrees of vulnerability.
And who wants to do that?
Based on the Greek words as defined by the BLB, I’ve re-worded Ephesians 6:13 as follows:
Therefore, use the complete armor of God, that you may be able to oppose in the toilsome, painful period marked by evil, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Why don’t we use what God provides? Or, why do we just assemble part of His protection rather than all of it? Oh my friends, I think of myself in reply: I’m lazy sometimes. It takes diligence to clothe myself with everything. I’m also often unaware of the threat.
I better make time and get more clued in. Because when I don’t, I’m offering myself as an easy target to the enemy of my soul.
And why do we dance with the enemy sometimes instead of outright opposing him? I, for one, cringe from conflict. And secondly, I often don’t want to put forth effort to stand for what’s right. Goodness, that could be exhausting.
Yet that perspective makes the enemy bolder.
What about this toilsome, painful period marked by evil? I’m actually pretty comfortable in my little world. Sure, I work hard and experience pain from time to time. But evil doesn’t seem to invade my small corner of the world … or does it?
Satan is the master deceiver.
Why do we cave in when we’re supposed to stand firm? Probably because we haven’t suited up in the first place. The enemy attacks us in our weak states, finding us pleasantly pliable and conducive to his wicked plans. We certainly don’t subscribe to his malevolent designs, but our lack of steadfastness on certain occasions grants him access.
Beloved readers, this isn’t a feel-good post, and I’m a bit hesitant to publish it. But it’s waking up the soldier in me, which is a good thing. Like the Old Testament Israelites, we face fierce enemies—we just can’t see them with our eyes.
What current life scenario leaps to mind in this light?
God is on our side. Let’s follow His instructions, get dressed, and “Fight the good fight of faith…” (1 Tim. 6:12).
Until next time, much love in Christ,
