EPHESIANS 6:10-20
The Whole Armor of God
A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.
In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.
STUDY AND REFLECT:
Peace is often going to be one of the first things the enemy tries to destroy in your life. He is the lord of chaos, and he wants you filled with anxiety and worry. But we can be protected by peace! When we place our faith in Jesus—in his death and resurrection—we are declared righteous, bringing us peace with God (Romans 5:1). We no longer have to look for things in this world to give us peace. Because, through Jesus, we have peace with God, giving us the peace OF God. Shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, does not refer to the absence of chaos, but rather a deep sense of peace in the midst of chaos. God’s peace can keep your emotions, mind, and body stabilized and your relationships intact despite the chaos around you. What is a situation or area in your life that is currently marked by disharmony, unrest, or an overarching lack of peace? How can the Good News of Jesus bring you peace during this situation? If this peace ruled your life, how would your behavior change in this situation?