Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
How many can recall an American Express commercial that said, “I never leave home without it?” It was a clever advertisement for their credit card that was catchy, easy to remember, and had a fairly successful campaign.
Last week I spoke with a cousin who is having a difficult time right now. We were very close growing up, and still are. I asked her point blank, “do you leave home without Him?” After my question, I was met with silence, or as they say these days, “crickets.”
She replied, “what are you talking about? Who is Him?”
And I responded with, “if you had to ask, then the answer is yes.” Naturally, as most of you will have surmised, I was referring to the LORD, and not leaving home without Him. I began to illustrate and explain to my friend what I truly meant by my comment.
In this fast-paced world we all have our to-do lists. Our minds can be on overload from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to sleep. Time has a way of quickly slipping away from all of us. So, what invariably happens is our time and prayer with God is pushed to the back burner. I suggested that maybe she should take the necessary time to be with God, whether in prayer, thought, thanks or His Word before leaving home.
Ephesians 6:10-18 gospel armor is what I consider to be our most prized collection of clothing. Anyone who is in possession of these items in their wardrobe are blessed indeed.
Are you wearing these garments?
What are these garments? The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation. And last but not least, the sword of the Spirit.
Draping ourselves with gospel armor enables us to handle situations, that we ordinarily would not be able to do. Being clothed and immersed in His Word, which is truth, is vitally important to our journey. When we’re equipped with this armor, we’re able to accomplish things under the auspices of His love and protection in utmost confidence. His gospel and Word provide an ability to navigate any circumstance or issue. It brings us through the fires, carries us over the hurdles of life, and shelters us from the storm.
The Sword of the Spirit, which is the “Word” of God cuts both ways.
As Hebrews 4:12 proclaims, “The word of God is powerful, it’s alive and sharper than a double-edged sword. It cuts deep. All the way to where our soul and spirit meet. And where our joints and marrow come together. The Word discerns the thoughts and desires of our hearts. And by wearing this invaluable armor each day of our lives here on earth we’re inherently assured that His promises, according to His Word, will reap great rewards.
What are you wearing today?
“Put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14). When you give yourself to Jesus and “put on” His righteousness, you’re fully and completely clothed in the entire armor of God.
Have you the Gospel Armor in your closet?
I always do, and I will honestly say, “I would never leave home without Him...”
“LORD, thank You for Your word, truth and love, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”