In teaching through the Book of Ephesians 6, it has become apparent that Paul wanted the church to be ready for the ensuing spiritual battles that Satan would bring against Christians. All believers in Christ need to be aware that we have a real enemy that is going to put us in the middle of spiritual warfare. You cannot avoid this but you do not have to live in fear. Paul wrote this passage in order that we would be prepared.
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord’s mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the devil.” Ephesians 6:10-11
To be ready for war you need to be strong in the Lord’s Power… not your own power but His power. To be prepared for battle we must ask the Lord to fill us with the Holy Spirit and we must subject ourselves continually to His scriptures. Remember when Jesus confronted Satan … Christ always used scriptures to answer Satan’s questions.
Next we need to put on the armor that God has provided. No good soldier would go into battle without the proper gear. God has provided armor… put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and take up the sword of the spirit which is the word of God.
Finally, stand firm… don’t go looking for the battle, don’t charge the gates of Hell, just stand firm… the battle will come and when it does you will be ready. Many folks get anxious and start charging the enemy… that will only make your position weak and set you up for a defeat. Stand firm… three times in this entire passage Paul says to stand. The reason is clear that we must stay put so that we will not be totally distracted by the enemy and so that we can continue in the work that God has set before us to do. Every good soldier must follow the orders of the superior officer. God is our commander and chief and he has given us instructions on how to prepare for the attack of the enemy. God’s orders tell us that we should be filled with His power, be clothed for battle and stand firm.
My dear friends…we will win the war but to avoid losing a single battle… Be Prepared!!!