Audio Download

The Weapons of Spiritual Warfare

[Study Aired Sept 10, 2024]

Introduction: The Weapons of Spiritual Warfare

As believers, we engage in a battle that transcends the physical realm. The Apostle Paul brings this reality to light in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

Paul, writing to the Ephesians, uses the metaphor of a Roman soldier’s armor to illustrate the spiritual tools God provides for this warfare. This imagery effectively communicates the reality and seriousness of spiritual warfare, while providing a memorable framework for understanding our spiritual defenses and weapons.

Romans 1:20 reveals that the physical world reflects spiritual realities:

“For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”

This scripture reveals that the physical world serves as a reflection of spiritual realities, allowing us to understand God’s nature and the principles of His kingdom through observing creation. Thus, the physical armor Paul describes points to spiritual truths and realities.

The primary battlefield for this warfare is within us, as Jesus teaches in Luke 17:20-21. To effectively engage in this spiritual battle, we must rely on the spirit’s teaching, as Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 2:13.

Luke 17:20-21 “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

1 Corinthians 2:13 “Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.”

As we examine each piece of spiritual armor, we will explore how these spiritual truths apply to our daily lives, drawing insights from both scripture and the physical world that God has created as a testament to His invisible attributes and spiritual principles.

Here is the scripture under review for this study:

Ephesians 6:14-20 “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, (NIV belt of truth buckled around your waist) and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. “

II. The Belt of Truth (Ephesians 6:14a)

Ephesians 6:14a states: “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth“

The New International Version (NIV) renders this as: “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist“

In ancient times, soldiers used a belt or girdle to gather and secure their loose garments around the loins (waist and hips), providing freedom of movement and serving as a foundation for other pieces of armor. Spiritually, a belt represents the truth that serves as our foundation, securing all other aspects of our faith and practice.

Central to understanding the belt of truth is recognizing that Jesus Christ Himself is the embodiment of truth. He declares in John 14:6

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Christ, as the Truth, and the prophets and apostles provide the solid foundation upon which all other aspects of our spiritual armor and life are built.

1 Corinthians 3:11 “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

Ephesians 2:20 “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;“

The Word of God, which testifies of Christ, is also truth, as affirmed in two key verses:

Psalm 119:160 (ASV): “The sum of thy word is truth; And every one of thy righteous ordinances endureth forever.”

John 17:17: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

The belt of truth involves immersing ourselves in and being secured by the whole counsel of God’s Word. This immersion in truth provides a solid foundation for our spiritual lives, Which is Jesus Christ as illustrated in Matthew 7:24-25

“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.”

Old Testament references illuminate the concept of girding:

– Exodus 12:11 – Preparation for the Passover: “And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD’S passover.”

– Isaiah 11:5 – A Messianic prophecy: “And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.”

These passages associate girding with readiness, righteousness, and faithfulness – all aspects of being secured in truth. They foreshadow the coming of Christ, who perfectly embodies these qualities and secures us in truth.

The belt of truth, with Christ as its essence, secures all other aspects of our spiritual armor. It serves as the foundation for our faith, prepares us for spiritual battles, and equips us to recognize and resist falsehood.

This individual commitment to truth, centered on Christ, is supported by the church, as 1 Timothy 3:15 reminds us:

“But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.“

The church plays a crucial role in upholding and reinforcing the truth, always pointing back to Christ as the foundation, that we as individuals gird ourselves with.

III. The Breastplate of Righteousness (Ephesians 6:14b)

Ephesians 6:14b states: “and having on the breastplate of righteousness;”

In ancient armor, the breastplate protected vital organs, particularly the heart. Spiritually, the breastplate of righteousness guards our heart – the center of our emotions, will, and character.

Isaiah 59:17 provides an Old Testament reference to God Himself wearing righteousness as a breastplate: “For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.”

Righteousness in Scripture has two key aspects:

– Imputed Righteousness: This is the righteousness of Christ credited to us by faith. Romans 4:5 says, “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.”

2 Corinthians 5:21 further elaborates: “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

This imputed righteousness is our primary protection, establishing our right standing before God and rendering Satan’s accusations powerless.

– Practical Righteousness: This refers to right living flowing from a relationship with God. 1 John 3:7 and Philippians 1:11 encourage this aspect.

1 John 3:7 states, “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.”

Philippians 1:11 encourages this: “Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”

Practical righteousness is our active participation of God’s work in us, as we “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” according to Philippians 2:12-13.

The Interplay of Imputed and Practical Righteousness in Spiritual Warfare:

Imputed righteousness provides the secure position from which we fight, while practical righteousness represents the actual fighting itself. They work together in the following ways:

– Foundation and Action
– Identity and Behavior
– Assurance and Vigilance
– Power and Application

Proverbs 4:23 highlights the importance of this dual protection: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” The breastplate of righteousness, comprising both imputed and practical aspects, guards our hearts in spiritual warfare.

In spiritual warfare, the breastplate of righteousness:

– Guards against accusation: When Satan accuses us, we stand in Christ’s perfect righteousness Revelation 12:10-11 “And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

– Protects our integrity: Righteous living keeps us from falling into sin that could compromise our witness Psalm 119:11 “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

– Maintains our communion with God: “Righteousness and peace have kissed each other” Psalm 85:10, indicating that righteousness facilitates our peace with God.

– Empowers our prayers: “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” James 5:16.

As we put on the breastplate of righteousness, we’re reminded of Christ’s words in Matthew 6:33, emphasizing the pursuit of God’s righteousness as our primary focus.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.“

IV. Feet Shod with the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace (Ephesians 6:15)

Ephesians 6:15 states: “And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”

In Roman military gear, soldiers wore sturdy sandals or boots, providing stability, protection, and readiness for long marches or combat. Spiritually, this equips us for the challenges of our faith journey and for sharing the good news of Christ.

The Connection to Spiritual Warfare:

– Standing Firm: The gospel of peace gives us a firm foundation to stand against spiritual attacks. Romans 5:1 states, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:” This peace with God is our unshakeable ground in spiritual conflicts.

– Mobility in Battle: It enables us to navigate the spiritual battlefield with confidence. Philippians 4:7 promises, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This peace guards our inner being as we face spiritual challenges.

– Advancing Against the Enemy: The gospel is not just defensive but offensive. As we share it, we push back darkness. Romans 10:15 declares, “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Our feet, fitted with the gospel, carry us into enemy territory to liberate captives.

– Overcoming Division: The gospel of peace counters this by reconciling us not only to God but to each other. Ephesians 2:14 says, “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;”

– Inner Calm in External Conflict: While spiritual warfare rages around us, the gospel gives us inner peace. John 16:33 reminds us, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Key aspects of this piece of spiritual armor (shoes) include:

– Readiness to share the gospel: Isaiah 52:7 declares, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!”

– Peace with God as a part of the foundation of our spiritual warfare Romans 5:1, as mentioned earlier, establishes our peace with God through faith in Christ

– Peace of God: Philippians 4:7, also mentioned above, shows how God’s peace protects our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, essential for withstanding spiritual attacks.

– Firm Footing in our faith 1 Corinthians 16:13 exhorts, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”

– Empowerment to be witnesses and advance God’s kingdom. Acts 1:8 states:
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

The preparation of the gospel of peace enables us to stand firm against spiritual attacks, move confidently through life’s challenges, and advance God’s kingdom by sharing Christ’s message of reconciliation with others.

V. The Shield of Faith (Ephesians 6:16)

Ephesians 6:16 states: “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”

In Roman warfare, the shield was crucial defensive equipment, large enough to protect the whole body. Similarly, in our spiritual warfare, faith acts as a protective shield against the enemy’s attacks.

Key aspects of the Shield of Faith include:

– Definition of Faith: Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

– Source of Faith: Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing the word of God, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.“

– Protective Power: 1 Peter 5:8-9 instructs us to resist the devil, steadfast in faith. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”

– Overcoming Power: 1 John 5:4 declares that our faith is the victory that overcomes the world., “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”

– Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us of God’s unfailing compassions and faithfulness. “It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

The Shield of Faith is our defense against doubt, fear, and temptation – the “fiery darts” of the enemy.

Doubt:

– Questioning God’s love or goodness, especially during difficult times
– Uncertainty about one’s salvation or God’s promises
– Skepticism about the truth of God’s Word

Faith counters doubt by holding firm to God’s promises and character (Matthew 21:21, James 1:6).

Matthew 21:21 “Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.” 

James 1:6 “But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.”

Fear:

– Anxiety about the future
– Fear of failure or inadequacy
– Terror in the face of persecution or hardship

Faith overcomes fear by trusting in God’s presence, power, and promises.

Isaiah 41:10 “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

Temptation:

– Enticement to compromise moral standards
– Lure of worldly pleasures or values
– Pressure to take shortcuts or act unethically

Faith enables us to resist temptation by trusting in God’s faithfulness and power to overcome.

1 Corinthians 10: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

James 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you”.

By recognizing these “fiery darts” as attacks from the enemy and actively wielding our shield of faith, we can protect our inward man during spiritual battles.

VI. The Helmet of Salvation (Ephesians 6:17a)

Ephesians 6:17a states: “And take the helmet of salvation…”

In physical armor, the helmet protects the head, vital for a soldier’s effectiveness and survival. Spiritually, the helmet of salvation safeguards our mind, thoughts, and decision-making processes.

The Assurance of Salvation and Its Role in Spiritual Warfare:

1 John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” 

1 John 5:13 emphasizes that we can know we have eternal life. This assurance is crucial in spiritual warfare for several reasons.

– Protection Against Condemnation: Romans 8:1 declares, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Our secure standing in Christ shields us from guilt and shame.<

– Confidence in God’s Love: Assurance of salvation fortifies our minds against doubts and fears. Romans 8:38-39 “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.“<

– Eternal Perspective: It helps us maintain focus on eternal realities amidst temporal challenges Colossians 3:1-2 “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” 

– Motivation for Holy Living: The certainty of our salvation inspires us to live righteously. 1 John 3:2-3 “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”

– Power to Resist the Accuser: Our assurance, grounded in Christ’s blood, empowers us to overcome Satan’s accusations. Revelation 12:10-11 “And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.”

– Peace of Mind in Trials: Knowing our eternal destiny is secure gives us peace even in the midst of spiritual battles. John 16:33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

By protecting our minds with the assurance of salvation, we are better equipped to resist the enemy’s attempts to introduce doubt, fear, or discouragement. This helmet guards our thoughts, allowing us to maintain a sound mind focused on God’s truth and our secure position in Christ, even in the heat of spiritual battle.

VII. The Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17b)

Ephesians 6:17b states: “…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:”

Unlike the primarily defensive pieces of armor, the sword is both a defensive and offensive weapon. In spiritual warfare, the Word of God serves as our sword, enabling us to combat falsehood and advance God’s truth.

Key aspects of the Sword of the Spirit include:

– The Nature of God’s Word: Hebrews 4:12 emphasizes its power and discernment. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

– Jesus’ quoting Scripture in Matthew 4:1-11 demonstrates effective use in spiritual battles. “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” “Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.”

– Spiritual Nourishment: Matthew 4:4 shows it’s essential for spiritual sustenance. “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.“

– Guide for Life: Psalm 119:105 describes it as a lamp and light for our path. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

– Truth that Sets Free: John 8:32 reveals its power to liberate from deception. “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

– Spiritual Growth: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 explains its role in equipping us for good works. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.“

Practical Application of God’s Word in Spiritual Warfare:

Consider the scenario of battling feelings of worthlessness:

– Recognize the Attack: Identify these thoughts as enemy attacks.

– Recall Relevant Scriptures: E.g., Psalm 139:14, Ephesians 2:10. 

Psalm 139:14 – “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

– Speak the Word: Declare these truths aloud.

– Meditate on the Truth: Reflect on their personal meaning.

– Act on the Word: Let it influence your actions.

– Share the Truth: Encourage others with these same truths. 2 Timothy 2:2 instructs: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

This process can be applied to various spiritual warfare situations. The more familiar we become with God’s Word, the more effectively we can wield this powerful weapon.

Linking the Sword of the Spirit to Prayer:

Ephesians 6:17-18 connects these directly. Prayer sharpens our spiritual senses, helping us discern which Scriptures to apply. It invites the spirit’s power to make the Word alive and active in our battles. As we internalize God’s Word, it enriches our prayer life, aligning our prayers more closely with God’s will.

VIII. Prayer (Ephesians 6:18)

Ephesians 6:18 states: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

While not a piece of armor per se, prayer is essential in spiritual warfare, encompassing and empowering all other aspects of our spiritual armament. It serves as the divine thread weaving together all pieces of the armor.

Integration of Prayer with the Armor of God:

– Belt of Truth: Prayer aligns our hearts and minds with God’s truth. John 16:13 says, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.”

– Breastplate of Righteousness: Prayer maintains our righteousness in Christ. 1 John 1:9 assures us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.“

– Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Prayer prepares us to share the gospel. We can pray as Paul did in Colossians 4:3, “Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ.”

– Shield of Faith: Prayer strengthens our faith. Romans 10:17 reminds us, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

– Helmet of Salvation: Prayer reinforces our assurance of salvation. Colossians 3:2 exhorts, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”

– Sword of the Spirit: Prayer sharpens our use of God’s Word. We can pray as David did in Psalm 119:18, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.“

Key aspects of Prayer in Spiritual Warfare include:

– Constant Communication: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.” This verse emphasizes the continual nature of our prayer life, keeping us in constant contact with our Commander-in-Chief as his soldiers.

– Praying in the Spirit: Romans 8:26-27 “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.”

– Watchful Prayer: Colossians 4:2 “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;”

– Perseverance in Prayer: Luke 18:1 “And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;”

– Power of Righteous Prayer: James 5:16 declares, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.“

– Intercession for Others: 1 Timothy 2:1 “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;”

– Prayer for Boldness in Witness: Acts 4:29 “And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,”

– Prayer for Understanding: Psalm 119:18 “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.“

Prayer maintains our communication with God, seeks His guidance and strength, and acknowledges His work in us. It’s through prayer that we effectively employ all other pieces of spiritual armor, aligning ourselves with God’s will and power in our spiritual battles.

IX. Conclusion

As we conclude our study on the Weapons of Spiritual Warfare, let us remember the overarching purpose of this spiritual armor as stated in Ephesians 6:13

“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”

Key points to consider:

– The Reality of Spiritual Conflict: Ephesians 6:12 This verse reminds us of the true nature of our spiritual battle. “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.“ 

– The Completeness of God’s Provision: 2 Peter 1:3 assures us that God has provided everything we need. “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:”

– Our Active Participation: James 4:7 calls us to actively resist the enemy, relying on God’s strength. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.“

– The Ultimate Victory in Christ: 1 Corinthians 15:57 assures our victory through Christ. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

– The Ongoing Nature of the Battle: 1 Peter 5:8-9 urges us to remain alert and steadfast. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.“

It’s crucial to understand that God’s armor is not a one-time gift, nor something we put on by our own effort. Rather, it’s an ongoing process of God’s work in our lives. Philippians 1:6 highlights this continuous nature of God’s work in us.

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

– God’s Ongoing Work of Truth: John 16:13 “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.“

– Growing in Righteousness: Philippians 3:9 “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.“

– Peace as a Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.“

– Increasing Faith: Luke 17:5 shows the disciples asking, “Lord, Increase our faith.”

– Deepening Assurance of Salvation: Romans 8:16 “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.“

– Growing in the Word: 1 Peter 2:2 encourages, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”