THE FULL ARMOR OF GOD (Part 7 of 9)

Christians around the world are becoming increasingly aware of the spiritual battle that surrounds them.

As a result, there is a renewed interest in the apostle Paul’s recommendation to put on the full armor of God to defend against the devil’s schemes as recorded in Ephesians, chapter 6.

Allow me to share a commentary from Debbie McDaniel regarding how Jesus modeled the use of our offensive weapon - the Word of God. 

“Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.  Stand firm then, take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:13, 17)

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT 

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT.  “When we are tempted, the most effective weapon that God has given to us as believers is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.  Jesus modeled this so beautifully during His temptation in the wilderness.  When the devil tried temptation after temptation against Him, Jesus used the sword of the Spirit.  Jesus spoke the Word of God to Satan.  In Luke 4:1-13, Jesus responded, “It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord God only. Him only you shall serve.” and again brought the Scripture back into context, “It has been said, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’”

It is helpful if we understand Paul’s imagery and intent when he speaks of God’s Word as the sword of the Spirit. 

Paul was under arrest in Rome when he wrote this letter and was familiar with a Roman soldier’s uniform. 

The sword that Paul refers to is not the long broadsword that we see in most movies, it is a short, sharp, double-edged sword. 

This was a primary offensive weapon used for close contact. 

The symbolism is accurate as the battle with Satan will be close and intense at times.

Notice, the sword is the first item of battle that is not purely defensive. 

The protective armor previously mentioned may prevent Satan from inflicting a heavy wound, but it cannot drive him away from us. 

The appropriate use of God’s word is the ONLY THING that will cause Satan to flee.

When you take part in God’s army, you can you expect to engage in battle with the enemy.  You must be prepared to take the offensive.

Notice also, Paul refers to the Word of God as the “sword of the Spirit”. 

We are not expected to engage Satan in our power alone. 

Yes, WE must wield the sword, but it is the wisdom and power of the Holy Spirit that effects victory on our behalf. 

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT WORKS! 

What if there was one book, honed from Scripture, that could guide you to victory over the realities of spiritual warfare?

One that may change your outlook on the importance of studying the Bible, memorizing Scripture, and using the Word of God to defeat the enemy’s attacks.

'Take Captive Every Thought' was written to disseminate the truth about spiritual warfare and to provide Christians the wisdom, discernment, and determination necessary to expose and defeat Satan’s influence over their thought life and allow God’s plan to prevail in their lives.  

To inquire about a speaking engagement or find out more about our book and Spirit of Influence Ministries, visit: www.spiritofinfluence.org 

Debbie McDaniel is a writer and pastor's wife, and the quote above can be found in her online blog. https://www.crosswalk.com/blogs/debbie-mcdaniel/praying-on-the-armor-of-god.html