Sunday night, as I was trying to fall asleep, this song kept entering into my mind. It fits so closely with what we’ve been learning in Sunday School about missions, God’s call in our lives, and the perseverance we must all pursue in the Christian life. As I was blaring this song through my car speakers this morning on my way to church, I was reminded of the words of Paul in his letter to the Ephesians:
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 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 firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Paul uses vivid imagery here to describe the Christian experience as spiritual warfare in which we must depend on the resources of Almighty God. We cannot stand on our own powers and might – we must wholly rely on the strength of the Lord. We are called to put on the “whole armor of God,” being prepared for the spiritual battles in our life. God has promised to empower us through the Holy Spirit and equip us for battle in these verses. I encourage you this week to stand firm in your faith. When trials come or opposition arises, remember these Biblical promises and stand tall. Put on your armor and know that God is with you.
-Daniel Wesley
Father,
Thank you for the blessing of another day to serve You and be loved by You. Help me this week to lean on you and better understand what it means to put on the “whole armor” of You. Guide my steps and empower me to stand firm in my faith, even when its difficult or unpopular. God, help me to be a missionary where I am. Most of all, God, thank you for Your Son, Jesus. In His Name, Amen.
