Spiritual Warfare: Equipped For The Battle Series

"Spiritual Warfare: Equipped for the Battle"

Today, we delve into the scriptures to explore the profound truths about spiritual warfare. Our focal verses are Ephesians 6:12-13 from the New Living Translation:

Ephesians 6:12-13 (NLT): "For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God's armour so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle, you will still be standing firm."

I. The Unseen Battle:

In our daily lives, we often engage in visible battles—struggles at work, conflicts in relationships, and challenges in our health. But what these verses remind us is that there is an invisible, spiritual battle raging all around us. This battle is not against other people but against spiritual forces of evil.

II. The Armour of God:

To withstand these spiritual attacks, God equips us with spiritual armour. Ephesians 6:13 instructs us to "put on every piece of God's armour." Just as a soldier wears armour to protect against physical attacks, we are called to put on the spiritual armour to protect against spiritual attacks.

III. The Belt of Truth:

Ephesians 6:14 (NLT) says, "Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth." Just as a belt holds everything together, truth holds our spiritual armour in place. Seek truth in God's Word and let it be your foundation.

IV. The Breastplate of Righteousness:

"Put on the body armour of God's righteousness" (Ephesians 6:14 NLT). This breastplate guards our hearts and keeps us righteous before God.

V. The Gospel of Peace:

In Ephesians 6:15 (NLT), we are told to "shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace." The gospel brings peace to our hearts and allows us to carry God's message wherever we go.

VI. The Shield of Faith:

"Take up the shield of faith" (Ephesians 6:16 NLT). Just as a shield protects a soldier from incoming attacks, faith shields us from the fiery arrows of doubt and fear.

VII. The Helmet of Salvation:

"Put on salvation as your helmet" (Ephesians 6:17 NLT). The helmet guards our minds, reminding us of our salvation in Christ.

VIII. The Sword of the Spirit:

Lastly, "take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:17 NLT). This is our offensive weapon, our way to counter the enemy's lies with the truth of God's Word.

IX. Applying the Truth:

As we conclude, I encourage you to apply these truths to your lives:

Daily Armour: Each day, consciously put on the full armour of God through prayer and meditation on His Word.

Prayer: Engage in fervent prayer. Seek God's guidance and protection in all aspects of your life.

Stand Firm: In times of spiritual battle, stand firm on the promises of God's Word.

Community: Remember, you are not alone in this battle. Lean on your fellow believers for support and encouragement.

Closing Quote: 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT) reminds us, "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour."

May you go forth equipped with the armour of God, ready to face the unseen battles of life with unwavering faith. After the battle, may you still be standing firm. Amen.

Remember, dear congregation, that you are not alone in this spiritual battle. With God's armour, you are equipped to overcome, to stand strong, and to be victorious.