Our Whole Armor, 8of9

~ 4 Tactics from “The Whole Armor of God” ~

In this series of posts we have considered six pieces of armor at the Christian’s disposal for spiritual warfare.  Three are considered primarily defensive (“breastplate of righteousness,” “shield of faith,” and “helmet of salvation”),  and we have offensive equipment (“shoes of peace,” “sword of the Spirit,” and “belt of truth”).  The sword of the Spirit (God’s Word) is the primary offensive weapon. 

Fundamental Lesson  ~  The Christian must put on the whole armor of God if he/she is to be prepared for spiritual victory.  In this post we will consider four tactics, and in the final post we will look at two strategies and two principles of prayer from this passage. 

Paul’s Conclusion  ~  After providing us with these word pictures of the Christian tools for warfare, the Apostle Paul reminds his readers of the power of prayer.  “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.  With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people” (Ephesians 6:18, niv).  Successful  soldiers know that they must keep in constant communication with their leaders.  If the message from the Commander in Chief is distorted or lost, the battle will end in defeat.  Our Supreme Leader has given clear orders in His written Word and He gives us specific directions while in the trenches of warfare through His Spirit.  Our enemy hates it when we apply the Word of God and/or pray. 

Tactic #1 (Reliance) ~  “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” (Ephesians 6:10).  Rely on His strength, His power, and His might.  Part of the strength that comes from God is the ability to be controlled by His Spirit.  “Be filled [controlled] with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18b).  Also, we have the power of prayer.  “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18a).  When the Christian learns to habitually rely on God’s strength rather than his own, victory is assured. 

Tactic #2  (Equip) ~  “Put on the whole armor of God…  Take up the whole armor of God…” (Ephesians 6:11a, 13a).  To win spiritual battles we must take up all of the available armor including all the defensive armor (6:13-16) and especially the primary offensive weapon which is the Word of God (6:17). 

Tactic #3 (Acknowledge)  ~  “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).  Acknowledge who the enemy of Christ and Christians is.  “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.  Resist him” (1 Peter 5:8-9a).  To be successful we must recognize, understand, and acknowledge that we are in a spiritual battle. 

Tactic #4 (Defend)  ~  “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” (Ephesians 6:13).  When we are wearing the whole armor of God, we able to stand firm, defend, and not give up ground to the enemy.  

don’t miss this  ~  When you Rely on Him, Equip yourself for battle, Acknowledge your enemy, and Defend your territory, you have the winning formula (R+ E+A+D = spiritual victory).  READ the Word of God regularly! 

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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