Ephesians 6:13
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Whenever Marines are sent on a deployment, be it a training exercise, or into hostilities, they go in equipped and ready for anything – to include engaging in warfare.
They are properly fitted with training, logistics, command and control, and mission objectives. But they are also equipped with the necessities of a combatant on the front lines. They are properly equipped and fitted to engage the enemy.
The individual Marine is thoroughly equipped with a sound and functional weapon, ammunition, web gear and a protective vest, a gas mask, and a helmet. All to provide the individual combat Marine defensive and offensive measures to prepare to go into the heat of war to not only survive, but to win.
As it goes for the individual Marine, so it goes for each member of the family of God. If we are not equipped and properly fitted to live in this world that is filled spiritual enemy forces who want to destroy us, we will fall victims every time.
But if we armor up and properly prepare ourselves with the full armor of God, that includes the following, we will be successful to the glory of God:
Ephesians 6:14-17
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
Every piece of armor, with the exception of one item is defensive in nature. The sword is the only offensive weapon, and it is the word of God.
If you’re all armored up, but fail to know the word of God, you are going to face a brutal attack from the enemy without any way to fight back.
Paul says we are to take up the FULL armor of God. We cannot dress up only in protective gear and go into battle and expect to win. We need the word of God at the ready. For it is powerful and will accomplish the mission!
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
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