August 18 - Stand Firm
We have been given the tools however, so how do we use them? Not so sure of that myself. But here they are:
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:12-13 (ESV)
Break Down:
Belt of Truth - there seems to be no cross reference for this but since Christ is Truth then I think it goes with the breastplate being Christ.
Breastplate - Righteousness, we have none of our own so that is Christ. Isaiah 59:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:8, Isaiah 61:10,
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. Romans 13:14 (ESV)
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Galatians 3:27 (ESV)
Shoes of readiness to preach the Good News- self explanitory - Isaiah 52:7, Romans 10:15, Exodus 12:11
Shield - Faith - 1 John 5:4 - this is how you extinguish the flaming darts from the enemy.
Helmet - the hope of salvation - But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 (ESV)
The Sword of the Spirit - The Word of God, the scriptures. Hebrews 4:12, Isaiah 49:2, Hosea 6:5, 2 Corinthians 6:7
...praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints...Ephesians 6:18-19 (ESV)
by truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left; 2 Corinthians 6:7 (ESV)
One page from a short poem book for the little guys:
I need to fix a few things and add the sparkly paint, but I am happy to be painting again.
