The Armor of God – So Much More Than a Snappy Metaphor!

I truly appreciate a snappy metaphor.

Principles and practices are made so crisp and clear through a solid, powerful word “picture.”  I cannot count the times where an idea/concept has been helpfully unpacked to me through the sharing of that great comment, “Picture it like this!”

One of the single most endearing and deeply educational metaphors for Christian living was contained in Paul’s letter to the early church in Ephesus:

“Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.”  Ephesians 6:11 NLT

But why this model of armor?

Well, the strongest worldly force at that time was the Roman Army. For over 400 years, they had been diligently becoming an absolutely unstoppable force. A force NOT to be trifled with. Formidable in all measures of the word. And, with Paul being held captive in Rome as he wrote this letter, he would have had ample opportunities to see and contemplate the items that he wove into this metaphor to help the young Christians in Ephesus equip themselves for their faith journey each day.

Paul wanted them to understand that they were actually in a battle – albeit a rather specific and special struggle. A “spiritual” battle that was still very real and present. It required a firm game-plan to be able to engage in the struggle and yet remain unharmed throughout.  God’s protection plan over their daily lives became a mental picture of pieces of armor. This explanation showed them that His protection was real, tangible and readily available – if they approached things properly.

With the assistance of some well-crafted thoughts by Christianity.com – here is Paul’s (and God’s) direction for what can be our protection every day of our lives – broken down piece by piece and purpose by purpose.

BELT OF TRUTH

 ^“Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth…”. Ephesians 6:14a NLT

As soldiers often had long robes that got in the way of their fighting ability – a belt allowed them to gather and stuff them up into it for better follow-through on what was required of them (often referred to at the time as “girding one’s loins”). It also turned out to be a darn fine place to hang your sword scabbard (holder) from!

The Lord knows we desperately need TRUTH. We need the truth about who we are and whose we are. Rattling our identity is a major aim of the enemy.  Jesus is the truth that sets us (and keeps us) free to do better what is required of us and not become tangled up in doubt.

BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

“……and the body armor of God’s righteousness” Ephesians 6:14b NLT

This would wrap completely around the soldier’s torso, protecting vital organs and exposed areas of the body from all manner of enemy attacks. Not fully “bullet-proof” as the armored vests of today – but certainly very functional and empowering for the wearer in the midst of the struggle.

Righteousness means being made right. We need the complete righteousness of Christ along with the righteousness that comes as our response to God’s gifts to you. The enemy will try to tempt us with all kinds of sin – but righteousness protects our hearts. This obedience to God keeps us from being mortally wounded through sin.

SHOES OF PEACE

“For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.” Ephesians 6:15 NLT.

Although it has often been said that an army travels on its stomach – in this age, the bigger truth was that an army traveled on the soles of its feet. And the Roman army had developed a very innovative sandal for its troops. Hard thick bottoms with actual tacks studded in all over their base to give more grip and longevity of wear. Ingenious!

One of the easiest ways for the enemy to shake us from standing firm is to bombard us with worry. But the Good News in our lives creates a oneness with the Lord. This produces the peace of the Lord in us. Therefore, we can be ready to deal with anxiousness and/or worry – no matter where it may come from.

SHIELD OF FAITH

“In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.” Ephesians 6: 16 NLT

Roman soldiers carried shields that were often covered with heavy animal hide. Before a battle, they would dip their shields into the water so the wet hide would extinguish any flaming objects that might hit them.

It is written in the book of Romans that faith comes from hearing the Good News about Christ. By constantly “dipping” into God’s Word, we constantly strengthen our faith and its ability to turn aside the enemy’s attacks.

HELMET OF SALVATION

“Put on salvation as your helmet….” Ephesians 6:17a NLT.

A soldier without the ability to think properly is a defeated soldier. Thus, it was obvious for the Romans to equip their soldiers with helmets to protect their thinking capabilities.  Getting “your bell rung” by something glancing off of the helmet was a lot better than something actually damaging an exposed skull.

The battlefield of our mind is the primary place where the spiritual battle gets fought. The enemy tries to imbed strongholds to bind us from moving forward through clear thinking.  Jesus’ gift of salvation to us can immediately free our minds. And then, the ongoing sanctification of our mind continues to provide daily protection for our thoughts, and ultimately our actions.

SWORD OF THE SPIRIT

“…and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:17b NLT.

This is the only weapon of a soldier that is both DEFENSIVE and OFFENSIVE. You would never send a soldier out to battle unarmed. It would be a disaster for that individual when the fight commenced. And besides, you already gave him a holder for this on his belt!  Might as well fill it fittingly.

There is no mincing of words here – as Paul immediately links the concept of the sword to the Word of God. What a powerful and fitting view. When Satan set upon Jesus in the wilderness, and the temptations were being thrown against Him, what was His response? He defended and then attacked back with the Word of God. This is the most effective weapon that God has given us for helping to make our way. There is no greater response than the truth of God’s Word.

Today, as you rise and prepare to face your day – be reminded of this beautiful and powerful metaphor – supplied in love and truth for your use in protection and advancement.

Armor up, everybody!