Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:11-13, “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”

Paul instructs the Ephesian church about spiritual warfare. He reminds believers that the Christian life involves real opposition, not merely human disagreements but unseen spiritual forces seeking to undermine faith and holiness. Therefore believers are commanded to put on the whole armor God provides so they can resist, endure the “evil day,” and remain standing firm.  

The armor is practical. Each piece corresponds to gospel truth and Christian practice. It is God’s provision for genuine spiritual opposition. Paul’s image shows disciplined readiness; armor implies habits and training that sustain us in danger. Holiness and watchfulness go together; Christians must be sober, vigilant, and habitually engaged in Godgiven means to resist temptation. 

When temptation, discouragement, or conflict intensifies, remember you may not be battling circumstances. Put on the armor daily, speak a gospel truth (belt of truth), resolve one righteous choice (breastplate of righteousness), rehearse the gospel that compels you to serve (shoes of the gospel), trust and obey God (shield of faith), remind yourself of salvation and hope (helmet of salvation), remember the scripture given to you and use it (sword of the Spirit). 

Marvel at the efficiency and beauty of God’s creation. He gave birds wings so they can fly. He gave fish fins and gills so they can swim and breathe underwater. In Ephesians we read that He gives us armor to stand firm and to fight because He knows that His faithful children will be under attack from the fiery darts of the wicked one. Are you standing in God’s armor?  

Lord God, clothe me today with Your whole armor. Give me truth to guard my speech, righteousness to rule my heart, readiness to carry the gospel, faith to extinguish doubt, the hope of salvation to steady my mind, Your Word to guide and defend me, and prayer that keeps me dependent on You. Help me stand in the evil day by Your strength alone. In the name of our Captain, the Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. 

Today’s devotion has been written by Bro. Joshua Soliz, a member of Rodgers Baptist Church who is a LIFE Group teacher and regular preacher here.