There are two types of equipment for soldiers and peace-keepers, such as police. There is protective gear, those things intended to maintain their safety, and there is that gear intended to be used to have an effect. The same is true for each of us as soldiers for Christ.
What additional piece of armor is mentioned in verse 16? What does it help us do? What pieces of armor are listed in verse 17?
As we gain all the equipment we need to be the Christians we are called to be, Ephesians adds three final pieces. The first is the shield of faith. As we step forward to live a life of holiness we will face attacks. We will be attacked as being narrow-minded. We will be attacked and criticized for being different from those around us.
Like the breastplate of righteousness, our faith is that concept that protects us as we confront the evils of the world. Our faith will keep us safe from the temptations and lures of the human nature. Our faith will guard us against the assaults and criticisms of those who do not understand.
As a helmet is designed to protect our head so that we are able to think clearly in any situation, we are encouraged to put on the helmet of salvation. Knowing that we are saved by Christ, that we have been claimed by God and rescued from a life of hopelessness will help us to face all situations with the proper way of thinking. No matter what doubts and concerns may be directed our way, if we will maintain the knowledge that we have been saved by Jesus we will have the right attitude to overcome our trials.
Finally, we are given equipment to have an effect on the world around us. We should take up the sword of the Spirit. This is not a weapon of destruction and pain. Rather, it is an instrument to put to death fear and pain and sorrows.
The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. When we share the word of God, when we share the message and teachings of the Bible we will have a positive effect on everyone and everything around us.
We must step forward equipped with the armor of God. We are protected by the truth and our righteousness. We are guarded by our faith. We are guided by the knowledge of our salvation and we are spurred to action through the gospel of peace and the teachings of God.
DAILY CHALLENGE: Which pieces of the armor of God do you need to develop?
