Putting on the Armor of God

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

One day I bemoaning having to put on my mask to go into a store, but I reminded myself that "masking" up is a way of protecting myself.  It's one small simple thing that I can do to add a layer of protection for myself and others.  I put on my mask everywhere.  Then it hit me, I need to be "masking" up spiritually by daily putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11).  I need to be strong in the Lord and protected from the schemes of the enemy.  I need to be just as conscientious and intentional about being protected spiritually.

I need to  have the belt of truth securely around my waist(Ephesians 6:14).  Truth holds things together.  Truth allows me to have light and walk securely in the mist of darkness.  I also need the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14) to guard my heart.  Keeping my heart pure and centered on Christ.  

I need to have my feet "fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." (Ephesians 6:15)  I can be ready to move when God says move and advance against the enemy when I have the gospel of peace.  The gospel that declares that man can be saved if they just believe in Jesus.  Believe that He shed His blood for us that we might be forgiven of our sins and reconciled to the Father.  Believing in the redemptive power of our Lord.  This brings peace between God and man and between mankind (uniting humanity).

I need to take up the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16) that extinguishes the flaming arrows that the devil throws at us.  We are not defenseless.  We can put out arrows of shame and condemnation. Arrows that would have us forget who we are in Christ Jesus.  Arrows that would try to distract us from the promises of God.

I need to make sure I cover my head with the helmet of salvation, protecting my mind.  Guarding my thoughts.  I also need the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17) The Word will let me combat the lies of the enemy. And finally I need to pray, always. Pray for myself and for others (Ephesians 6:18). 

God has given me all that I need to be protected from the enemy.  I need to "mask up" on all occasions and put on the full armor of God.

Father, I thank You for giving us all that we need to be protected spiritually.  Thank You for Your strength and Your armor.  Help us to be intentional about wearing it so that we can stand firm when the enemy attacks.  Thank You for love, wisdom, grace, and mercy.  In Jesus name. Amen

Following God

 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children. Ephesians 5:1

The Fair is in town.  Its annual tradition for my co-workers and I to walk over during lunch and fellowship.  Well today I noticed something as one of my colleagues took the lead in the trek.  I noticed that I followed his steps and movement.  My head was down, but my eyes were on his feet.  He stepped and then I followed suit.  Once we got to the fair, I looked up and kept my eyes trained on him.  I didn't want to loose him in the crowd as he walked ahead.

My awareness today got me to thinking about Jesus and how need to follow Him just that intently.  I need to be purposefully moving when He moves and putting my feet where He orders my steps.  I need to have my eyes on Him and  not loose sight of Him in the day to routines of this life.  I need to follow Him with confidence, knowing that He will lead me safely to my destination.  My trust needs to be in Him.

Lord, let me follow your example.  Your example of extending grace and forgiveness and showing mercy and kindness.  Let me follow your example of how to love my fellow man.  Help me to keep my eyes focused on You, trusting You to direct my path.  May others be drawn to You as I follow You.  In Jesus name.  Amen