Be strong in the Lord

Ephesians 6:10-11
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

The reader of the apostle’s message would have understood the armor of the Roman soldier and hence a comparison was being made about the protection that could be achieved. Listed was a belt of truth that wrapped and surrounded you; a breastplate of righteousness to protect the heart; feet fitted with sandals ready to move forward with the gospel of Jesus Christ; a shield of faith in God and Christ to defend against the attacks of Satan; a helmet of salvation which protected the head to keep out doubting thoughts; and finally a sword of the spirit which is God’s word that cuts quickly to reveal the truth. These elements of faith were there to keep a person strong in the Lord.

 

 

Many of you have probably watched shows on animals in the wild. Often they will show the slow persistent hunt of lions as they stalk their prey. They will follow a herd waiting for one, just one, of the animals to make the mistake of wandering away from the group. Then slowly and methodically the lions will zero in on the one who is alone and attack.

There is a lesson here for all of us. The Bible tells us Satan walks around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. All that is needed is to separate one person from the church, God and loving friends by creating a reason that often results in anger. Once the person is away from God and those who love God the armor falls off and they are they are open to an attack from Satan. Suddenly they find themselves devoured in anger and sin. They become Satan’s victim looking to harm themselves or others through sin.

 

So put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes and be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.