How can we prepare to "stand your ground" in spiritual battles? Our Call to Stand “Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand.” – Ephesians 6:13 Know the Battle Lines • The conflict is spiritual, not merely cultural or personal (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). • Our adversary is real and relentless (1 Peter 5:8-9). • The “day of evil” arrives unexpectedly, so preparedness is not optional. Put On the Full Armor Ephesians 6:14-17 lays out six pieces; none are ornamental, all are essential. • Belt of Truth – Fasten Scripture around every thought and decision (John 17:17). • Breastplate of Righteousness – Guard the heart by living in obedience and repentance (Proverbs 4:23). • Shoes of the Gospel of Peace – Walk in readiness, sharing Christ and standing on His finished work (Romans 5:1). • Shield of Faith – Quench every flaming dart of doubt or temptation by trusting God’s promises (Hebrews 11:6). • Helmet of Salvation – Protect the mind with the certainty of redemption and future hope (1 Thessalonians 5:8). • Sword of the Spirit – Wield God’s Word offensively and defensively, following Jesus’ example in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Strengthened by the Word • Hide Scripture in the heart to resist sin (Psalm 119:11). • Study diligently to handle truth accurately (2 Timothy 2:15). • Speak the Word aloud; faith is strengthened when Scripture is voiced (Romans 10:17). Stay Alert and Pray • “Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition” (Ephesians 6:18). • Persistent, watchful prayer keeps spiritual senses sharp (Colossians 4:2). • Submission precedes resistance: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Hold the Line Together • Soldiers fight best in formation; isolation invites defeat (Ecclesiastes 4:12). • Regular fellowship spurs endurance and love (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Mutual encouragement reminds each believer of shared victory and shared responsibility. Live Ready for Victory • Cast off deeds of darkness and “put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:12-14). • Christ has overcome the world; stand firm in His triumph (John 16:33). • “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Suit up daily, stand your ground, and watch the Lord prove Himself faithful. |
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