The Two-Man Lift

The Two-Man Lift

Ephesians 6:14-18; 1 Samuel 38-40

When something is too heavy for you to carry, what do we do? We ask for help, hence – “The Two-Man Lift!” This was a policy where I used to work… Over 50 lbs., get help!!

Knowing that God wants us to pray as if we are fighting and defeating the most real of all enemies, not only in our personal lives but also on behalf of other believers...consider each piece of armour from Ephesians 6:14-18, what is the purpose of the breastplate, shoe, shield, and sword, and how does my prayers fit in with them?

In Ephesians 6:14-18, Paul uses the metaphor of armor to symbolize the spiritual tools and defenses believers need in their battle against evil. Each piece serves a distinct purpose, and prayer weaves through them all as the lifeblood of our spiritual warfare. Here's how each piece ties into your prayers and spiritual journey:

1. Breastplate of Righteousness: The breastplate guards the heart, representing righteousness as a protection against sin and guilt. Prayers of confession, repentance, and alignment with God's will help you put on this breastplate. By seeking His righteousness, you keep your spiritual heart protected from the attacks of shame and temptation.

2. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: The shoes represent readiness and stability, grounded in the peace that comes from the gospel. Prayer equips you with the courage to share your faith and the strength to stand firm in your convictions. Through prayer, you remain steadfast and prepared to walk the path God has for you.

3. Shield of Faith: The shield deflects the fiery darts of doubt, fear, and lies from the enemy. Prayers of faith—declaring trust in God's promises and power—strengthen your grip on this shield. When you pray in faith, you're actively extinguishing the enemy's attacks by leaning on God's truth and provision.

4. Sword of the Spirit: The sword is the Word of God, a weapon to fight back against spiritual forces. Praying with Scripture, using God's promises and truths in your prayers, sharpens this sword. When you declare His Word in prayer, you're wielding the sword to defeat lies and uphold His kingdom.

Prayer is both the glue that holds the armor together and the force that activates it. Paul concludes by urging believers to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions" (Ephesians 6:18), showing that prayer is the way we engage with God, stand firm, and intercede for others. It's your direct line to Him in the heat of spiritual battle, ensuring each piece of armor is effectively used.

You should see your prayers working alongside this armor in your daily walk?

Dear friends, The Holy Spirit plays a vital and empowering role in helping you put on and use each piece of the armor of God. Here's how:

1. Breastplate of Righteousness: The Holy Spirit works within you to cultivate righteousness, guiding your heart to align with God's will. He convicts you of sin, leads you to repentance, and empowers you to live a life of integrity. His presence ensures your heart remains protected against guilt, shame, and the enemy's accusations.

2. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: The Holy Spirit gives you the courage and wisdom to share the gospel and brings peace to your heart in times of turmoil. He strengthens your walk in faith, ensuring you remain grounded in God's truth and ready to share His message of reconciliation and love.

3. Shield of Faith: The Holy Spirit fortifies your faith, reminding you of God's promises and His unwavering presence. He helps you trust in God's power and love, enabling you to extinguish the fiery darts of fear, doubt, and deception launched by the enemy.

4. Sword of the Spirit (The Word of God): The Holy Spirit illuminates Scripture, helping you to understand and apply God's Word effectively. He equips you to wield the sword with confidence, giving you the right words and insights when confronting spiritual battles and standing on God’s truth.

In all of this, prayer is the key to connecting with the Holy Spirit. As you pray, you invite Him to guide, strengthen, and empower you to use this armor effectively. It's through His presence and work in your life that you can stand firm and victorious in the spiritual fight.

The story of David and Goliath is such a powerful metaphor for how God equips us for our unique battles. David rejecting Saul’s armor reminds us that we’re not called to fight in someone else’s strength or methods.

Why Saul’s Armor Was Unfit for David

1 Samuel 17:38-40

New King James Version

38 So Saul clothed David with his [a]armor, and he put a bronze helmet on his head; he also clothed him with a coat of mail. 39 David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, “I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them.” So David took them off.