Leading up to our 24-hour time of prayer and fasting this weekend we will be posting daily to help us prepare our hearts and minds for the weekend. Today we ask you to spend some time chewing on Ephesians 6:10-18. We’d like you to enter in to spiritual battle, arming yourselves with all of your God-given armor.
“God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, 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 the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Stand therefore,
having fastened on the belt of truth,
and having put on the breastplate of righteousness
and as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish al the flaming darts of the evil one
and take the helmet of salvation,
and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God,
praying in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
— Ephesians 6:10-18
God gives us this armor, but He asks us to pick it up, put it on. Take some time and reflect on each gift, what they are and what they mean. Every tool God has given us to fight this spiritual battle against evil.
“Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.” — The Message: Ephesians 6:15-18