Wednesday - "Armor of God pt.1"

Ephesians 6:11 (NLT2) 11Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.

What does the "armor of God" look like? We are told to wear it to battle the devil's tactics...what is included? It can be found in Ephesians 6:11-17

1) The Helmet of Salvation - We must be sure that we have a relationship with the living Christ. Our salvation decision is the most important decision that we will ever make.... Will it make life easy? Not necessarily...life will still be challenging. After you make a commitment to Jesus as Lord and Savior, the devil will double his efforts to bring you down. But you have more protection and weapons than he can handle...

2) The Breastplate of Righteousness - No matter what the devil tries to throw in your face, when you are wearing the armor of God you are righteous in the eyes of God. This is not by our own doing but by the blood of Christ who sacrificed Himself so that God would see us this way. Through Christ, you aren't condemned...you aren't accused...you aren't worthless...you are set apart and righteous (in right standing) with God...because you confess your belief in Christ's resurrection and trust Him as Lord and Savior.

3) The Gospel of Peace - The foot part of the armor...are you walking in peace? This part of the armor is one of the most powerful. The devil will do everything he can to make your life chaotic...hectic...challenging...We don't get to control what the world throws at us...we DO get to control our reaction to it. When you are wearing the full armor of God...these sandals of peace are there to help us to remember that we are not in control, God is. Let Him handle the stress and worry...leave those things at the cross (and don't pick them back up). Live at peace with your neighbors, co-workers and family... give grace when needed...live out a Christ-like example to others...

Today we looked at the first three pieces...which of these three do you sometimes forget to put on? In your journals, write a prayer and ask God to help you remember that you are to wear every piece...every day... Your life will be richer as a result.

See you tomorrow,
Pastor Brian