The journey of faith is often likened to a grand and epic adventure, filled with trials, challenges, and battles of the soul. As believers, we find ourselves navigating a world where the clash between good and evil is not merely metaphorical but deeply spiritual. The Apostle Paul’s timeless words to the Ephesians remind us of this profound truth: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12, KJV).
In this revelation, Paul unveils a spiritual reality that transcends our visible, physical world. He peels back the veil to reveal the unseen realm where an ongoing battle rages. It’s a battle not fought with conventional weapons, political strategies, or earthly might but one that requires an entirely different kind of armor—the armor of God.
The significance of this armor cannot be overstated. It serves as both our defense and our offense in the spiritual battlefield. It empowers us to stand firm, resist the enemy’s schemes, and advance the kingdom of God. Ephesians 6:10-18 offers us profound insight into this spiritual armor and how we can employ it to fight the good fight of faith.
The Nature of Spiritual Battles
Before we dive into the specifics of the armor, it is imperative that we understand the nature of the battles we face. Paul’s words illuminate the essence of these conflicts: they are spiritual in nature. While they may manifest in various aspects of our lives—our relationships, our thoughts, our emotions, and even our physical circumstances—the root of these struggles extends into the unseen, spiritual realm.
It is important to know that these spiritual battles are not confined to extraordinary events or supernatural encounters alone. We face them every single day, often in mundane and seemingly ordinary situations. Some may be huge and tumultuous, while others may be subtle and even stealthy. Nevertheless, each presents an opportunity for us to exercise our faith, to stand firm in the face of adversity, and to claim victory through Christ.
In this spiritual battlefield, we are not left defenseless or ill-equipped. In fact, God has given us everything we need to be successful in battle. It is this armor of God that Paul implores us to put on, to wear with diligence and intentionality. Each piece of this armor is imbued with unique significance, purpose, and power. Together, they form a comprehensive defense and offense against the spiritual forces that seek to undermine our faith, rob us of our peace, and hinder our progress in the kingdom of God.
As we journey through this study, may our hearts be stirred with renewed zeal and determination to put on the full armor of God daily. May we embrace the reality that, armed with this armor, we are not only conquerors but more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Romans 8:37).
The Belt of Truth
Ephesians 6:14a (KJV) – “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth…”
The first piece of the armor is the belt of truth. The belt was a crucial part of a Roman soldier’s armor because it held everything together. It represents truthfulness and integrity in our lives. In a world filled with lies and deception, knowing and living the truth – the Word of God – is like putting on a strong belt. It holds our spiritual life together, keeping us stable and upright. It reminds us that living in truth of God’s word is a foundational aspect of our Christian walk. When we embrace and walk in truth, God is on our side. Jesus declared in John 14:6 (KJV), “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Study and meditate on God’s Word regularly (Psalm 119:105).
Avoid deceit and falsehood in our own lives (Psalm 51:6).
Test everything against the truth of God’s Word (1 John 4:1).
The Breastplate of Righteousness
Ephesians 6:14b (KJV) – “…and having on the breastplate of righteousness;”
The breastplate protects a soldier’s vital organs, just as righteousness guards our hearts and minds. Righteousness is not our own but imputed to us through faith in Christ (Romans 3:22).
Righteousness means doing what is right in God’s eyes. Wearing the breastplate of righteousness means living a life that is morally upright and just. Living a life in line with God’s standards not only protects our hearts and minds from the corruption of sin but also portrays us as followers of Christ who strive to do what is right. God loves righteousness and His children do too.
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Live a life of holiness and obedience to God’s commands (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Guard our hearts against sin and unrighteousness (Proverbs 4:23).
Seek God’s righteousness above all else (Matthew 6:33).
The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
Ephesians 6:15 (KJV) – “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”
Just as shoes provide stability and mobility, the gospel of peace enables us to stand firm in our faith and share it with others. The shoes of peace represent our readiness to share the message of peace found in Christ. They also help us stand firm when life’s challenges try to knock us off balance. We are peacemakers through God because Jesus reconciled us back to the Father. Knowing we are at peace with God helps us carry His message of peace to others.
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Be ready to share the good news of Christ’s salvation (1 Peter 3:15).
Walk in peace with others, resolving conflicts and promoting unity (Romans 12:18).
Be willing to go wherever God sends us to spread His message (Isaiah 6:8).
The Shield of Faith
Ephesians 6:16 (KJV) – “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
When we trust God, our faith acts as a shield against the enemy’s attacks. It deflects doubts, discouragement, and the fiery arrows of temptation that the enemy throws at us. Faith is our defense against everything that Satan tries to use to weaken our resolve. When we submit to God through faith and resist the devil – he will flee (James 4:7).
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Strengthen our faith through prayer and the Word (Romans 10:17).
Trust in God’s promises, even and especially in difficult circumstances (Hebrews 11:6).
Use our faith to extinguish the enemy’s lies and attacks (Matthew 17:20).
The Helmet of Salvation
Ephesians 6:17a (KJV) – “And take the helmet of salvation…”
The helmet protects the head, which houses our thoughts and beliefs. Salvation, through faith in Jesus Christ, guards our minds and assures us of our eternal destiny. When we know that we are saved and belong to God, it gives us confidence and protects our minds from the doubts and lies the enemy may try to plant.
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Have assurance of our salvation through Christ (1 John 5:13).
Renew our minds with the Word of God (Romans 12:2).
Reject thoughts and beliefs that contradict God’s truth (2 Corinthians 10:5).
The Sword of the Spirit
Ephesians 6:17b (KJV) – “…which is the word of God:”
The sword of the Spirit is our offensive weapon—the Word of God. It enables us to defeat the enemy and overcome the trials we face. The sword is an offensive weapon, and in our spiritual battle, the sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, the Bible. This sword is not just for defense but for actively fighting against spiritual attacks and temptations. Knowing and applying God’s Word is our weapon against the lies and schemes of the enemy. It’s important to know what it says and how to apply it in every situation. Read and study daily.
To fight the good fight of faith, we must:
Study and know Scripture for ourselves (Psalm 119:11).
Use God’s Word to combat temptation (Matthew 4:4).
Share the gospel with others, using Scripture as our guide (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
In the spiritual battle of faith, we are not defenseless. God has provided us with the full armor to stand firm and fight the good fight. By putting on the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, we can face the challenges of life with confidence.
Let us remember the words of 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV), “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” As we grow in our understanding and application of the armor of God, we too can declare victory in our faith journey. May this study equip you to stand strong in your faith, advance God’s kingdom, and fight the good fight with unwavering confidence in the Lord.
Study Questions
Foundation of Truth:
- How does the Belt of Truth serve as the foundation for all the other pieces of your spiritual armor?
- In what ways does a strong foundation in God’s truth impact your ability to fight the good fight of faith?
Guarding Your Heart with Righteousness:
- How does the Breastplate of Righteousness protect your heart and mind in your spiritual battles?
- What practical steps can you take to ensure you’re living in righteousness and guarding your heart effectively?
Walking in the Gospel of Peace:
- Explain the role of the Shoes of the Gospel of Peace in your spiritual armor.
- How can being prepared to share the gospel promote unity and help you stand firm in your faith?
Your Shield of Faith:
- Why is faith considered your shield that quenches the fiery darts of the enemy?
- How can you strengthen your faith and effectively use it to defend against doubt, fear, and temptation?
The Assurance of Your Salvation:
- What does the Helmet of Salvation represent in your spiritual armor, and how does it protect your mind?
- Share practical ways you can maintain a strong assurance of your salvation through Christ.
Your Offensive Weapon: The Sword of the Spirit:
- How does the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, serve as your offensive weapon in the spiritual battle?
- What strategies can you employ to actively use Scripture to combat temptation and share the gospel?