The War

If you are familiar with the phrase, "Armor of God," you probably grew up in Sunday School. Maybe you learned about the shield of faith or the sword of the Spirit as a kid. But what you may not know is why God gives us this equipment. Since most of us will never face an openly supernatural spiritual battle, why does Ephesians 6:10-20 talk about "forces of darkness in heavenly realms?" God gives six specific pieces of armor to everyone who believes in Jesus. In this sermon. learn how the armor helps us in our everyday lives and how to utilize it effectively. You and I may not feel like we are in an active warzone, but the Apostle Paul reminds us that we are in a daily spiritual battle. And thankfully, God does not leave us defenseless. No matter what you are facing today, God has equipped you to stand strong in His Power.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

- Ephesians 6:10-20