Dress for Success

It doesn’t matter where we go or what we do, we need to figure out what we are going to wear. If we are professionals who work outside the home, then our wardrobe reflects appropriate attire. Most jobs have a dress code of sorts, some less formal than others. Still, certain professions require specific dress because lives depend on it – both theirs and ours. If a fireman doesn’t have the appropriate gear, he can’t enter a burning building. In fact, depending on the conflagration, he might not even be able to get close enough to help douse the flames. An astronaut’s need for appropriate gear is understood.

We try to take good care of ourselves as well – eating properly, living healthy lifestyles, and exercising. We take precautions based on the weather and other elements of our environment. Drink plenty of water when it’s hot, dress warmly in cold weather, wear sunscreen – all meant to protect.

However, based on the previous entry, if the mind is a battlefield, then how do we dress or protect ourselves? We may try to do it through our own strength, but it isn’t enough.

Since we are engaged in a spiritual battle, God has provided us His spiritual armor*. If you have ever watched movies about knights in battle, you know how important it is to be protected.

God’s armor protects us against the rulers, powers, and world forces of darkness, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Satan doesn’t fight fair, but he’s smart enough not to engage in a full-blown attack. Instead, he prefers small skirmishes that assault our emotions and our beliefs. Once those are vulnerable and weak, then we begin to doubt.

The amazing thing is that this armor protects us from head to feet. If every action begins with a thought, then the helmet of salvation is vital, protecting our mind and our thoughts.

Second to our minds, our hearts are at risk and the breastplate of righteousness protects that place where our emotions, self-worth, and trust reside.

It’s important to understand that Satan attacks with lies – oftentimes sounding like the truth. God has provided us the belt of truth, for God’s truth defeats the devil’s lies.

When we are weary and feel like giving up, we can put on the shoes of peace, which motivate, strengthen, and encourage us in spite of Satan’s assaults.

Two more items complete the armor. The shield of faith keeps us from getting stuck in our own circumstances and allows us to see our victory. Finally, the sword of the spirit, God’s Word – the only weapon of offense –will ward off temptation.

It may not be easy to understand or accept why God’s armor is so important. The biggest mistake we can make as believers is thinking Satan is a little guy in a red suit with a pitchfork. Isn’t it better to be prepared than to be caught defenseless in the battles that will come?


Blessings, Francine
*Ephesians 6:10-17

2 comments:

    On 9:20 PM Magdaleine said...

    When I first saw the title, I wondered, "Where are you going with this?" But what a PERFECT title! I love it! I don't think I've ever heard the armour of God explained that way. Thanks, Francine.

     

    Cami and Maggie:

    Once again, you bless me with your comments. Thank you for your faithfulness.

    Francine

     
 
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