“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.” (Ephesians 6:13)

The Apostle Paul devoted much attention to the inner struggle between the flesh and the spirit. In his letters Paul uses the flesh to represent our mortal and weak resistance to the temptations of sin, while the Spirit is the indwelling of God’s infinite righteousness and Holiness within us. With both the Devil (through sin) and the Spirit lobbying for our attention, life for us then becomes a duel between our desire to sin and our longing to heed the Spirit’s call. In this battle we must see that sin is the devil’s plan for us realized. He uses cunning attacks by turning our own words, thoughts, and emotions against us. He is a relentless foe, never resting, always planning and always maneuvering against us. But in today’s verse, Paul is quick to point out that this battle is not one that we go into alone. God has also equipped us with the weaponry to defend ourselves. “The belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes with the preparation of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit – which is the word of God.” (From Ephesians 6:14-17) These are the components that make up the full armor of God. Providing believers with a framework for spiritual preparedness and resilience. By putting on this armor through prayer, study of scripture, and living out our faith, believers equip themselves to face the challenges of life with courage, wisdom, and strength from God. It reminds us that our battles are not merely physical or worldly but spiritual, and we have the resources to overcome the attacks of Satan through our relationship with God. Sin kills, but God saves. Today know the battle that rages and be prepared. Put on the full armor of God, and stand.