In what ways can we prepare for spiritual battles today? Prepared and Armed: Insights from Ezekiel 38:7 “‘Get ready; be prepared—you and all the hordes gathered about you. Take command of them.’” (Ezekiel 38:7) Drawing the Connection Though addressed to a specific army in Ezekiel’s prophecy, the command “Get ready; be prepared” echoes the perennial call for God’s people to stand alert in every age. Spiritual conflict is real (Ephesians 6:12), and readiness is not optional. How Readiness Looks Today • Ground yourself in Scripture – Daily intake shapes discernment (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). – Jesus countered Satan’s temptations with “It is written” (Matthew 4:1-11). • Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) – Belt of Truth: embrace biblical reality over cultural spin. – Breastplate of Righteousness: walk in obedience; unconfessed sin leaves gaps. – Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: stay mobile, ready to share hope (1 Peter 3:15). – Shield of Faith: extinguish doubts and accusations (1 John 5:4). – Helmet of Salvation: secure identity in Christ (Romans 8:1). – Sword of the Spirit: wield Scripture offensively and defensively (Hebrews 4:12). – Pray in the Spirit: armor is fastened through continual prayer. • Cultivate vigilant watchfulness – “Be sober-minded; be alert” (1 Peter 5:8-9). Recognize subtle compromises. – Watch for discouragement, distraction, and division—the enemy’s common tactics. • Strengthen spiritual disciplines – Prayer and fasting heighten dependence (Matthew 6:6,17-18). – Worship shifts focus from fear to God’s greatness (Psalm 34:1-3). – Confession and repentance keep the heart uncluttered (1 John 1:9). • Stand in community – “Two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Mutual accountability fortifies resolve. – Gather regularly; isolation breeds vulnerability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Resist and advance, not merely endure – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) – Use spiritual gifts to push light into darkness (1 Corinthians 12:7; Matthew 16:18). Living in Constant Readiness Like the troops in Ezekiel 38, followers of Christ are summoned to maintain a posture of readiness—morally, mentally, and spiritually. Preparation happens before the attack; victory is secured when the battle arrives. |
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