¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ 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 firm. 

Ephesians 6:10-13

In the book “Heaven is for Real,” we find a description of the last battle by a small boy (with these stories fabricated by his parents) in which we, as God’s children, must take up sword, shield and spear and physically fight the demon hordes of hell. It’s a formidable picture, and likely inspires fear over the final battle rather than putting the believer in a place of comfort, or enabling them to trust in the power of God. This idea is anti-biblical, partly because it was totally made up for the sake of gathering attention, but also because we don’t see this imagery anywhere in scripture. To writing of books, there is no end. And when it comes to those who simply seek to profit from fear, doubly so. 

As Paul wraps up his letter to the church in Ephesus, we see him speaking out of a desire for protection and awareness for those that he loves. This is good and right. And so he directs them to a resource every Christian possesses, and instructs them in their use of it, so they might endure to the end, standing firm against the enemy and his evil plots. And when we consider that our enemy is unseen, we can easily slide into a posture of fear, worry, and doubt. But even as the instructions are given for our protection, we must remember one key thing:

We are dressing for battle after the war is already won. 

As Paul instructs the church to be on guard in this way, and to remember that God is our strength (we don’t have to be enough on our own), he is guiding us to a battlefield that has already been blasted to glass by the power of His might. We, then, are engaged with fighting the already defeated enemy. Our struggle is with them, as they tempt, discourage, ensnare, and torment. But the main battle has already been won. This is why Jesus is depicted in Revelation as coming in victory, and with the “sword” of His mouth, He will pronounce final judgment and defeat over the enemy. There will be no need for us to fight, as our Lord and Master is sufficient to defeat the enemy with a word. Heaven is indeed for real, but Jesus is already the victor. We simply need to be still and let Him fight for us (Exodus 14:14.)

These spiritual authorities, which stem from this present darkness, are our foes. And, we don’t want to discount them, as a wounded dog backed into a corner is dangerous, so are they. We cannot labor under the fear that demons lurk in every shadow, nor do we want to write them off as being a non-issue. Instead, we responsibly size up our foe, and we gear up in order to resist his schemes, plots, fiery arrows and cutting jabs.

This is why we take up the whole armor. It is a task to put on a full suit of armor. There must be intentionality, checking straps and buckles, making sure it’s in good repair, and knowing its functionality well enough that we can trust it in a moment’s notice. If we do not know our armor, then we will be ill-equipped to use it, and we can take an arrow in the process. 

We also want to make sure we account for every piece, making sure to cover our soft spots and vulnerable areas. The enemy is cunning, and he knows where each of us is weak and prone to sin. We put on the whole armor, not just what we think we need each day, because getting comfortable with the process creates a lax response, and this lack of care can lead to harm from our ever vigilant enemy. 

And so, we are called to be strong in the strength of His might. Once again, a reminder that you and I don’t have to be enough on our own. We don’t have to devise a defense of our own cunning and power, but to simply engage with that which has already been given.

God is strong.

We are not.

God is mighty.

We are quite small and frail. 

God provides.

We receive.

As we clothe ourselves with His strength, intentionally, daily and with great care, we will find ourselves protected against the attacks of the enemy. Have faith that your Master will equip you well, not as Saul’s armor was ill fitting for David, but as One who loves His children and does not wish to see them come to harm. 

Examine & Prayer

What does it mean to put on the armor? How does God call us to engage with Him in a way that leaves us feeling protected? Are you giving intentionality to “putting on the armor” so you can see where you are already vulnerable? Do you see how God is protecting you in your weakness? 

Take a moment to thank God for His watch-care over you, and for His provision in your weakness.

Ask God to strengthen you in the strength of His might today. 
Ask God to help you see where you may try to compensate in your weakness, rather than letting Him be your strength.
Ask God to help you see where you are weak, and prayerfully consider how He protects and equips you.

Praise God for His steadfast love and be reminded of His protection for His children.