Daily Devotional | Full Armor

When David was about to face the giant Goliath, King Saul gave him a tunic, a coat of armor, and a bronze helmet. He also gave David a sword. But the king’s armor was of no use to David. Instead, he faced the enemy with five smooth stones and a sling (1 Sam. 17:40). David’s real defense was the power of God (1 Sam. 17:45).

In the same way, a Christian does not battle against flesh and blood but “the devil’s schemes” (Eph. 6:11). We face a spiritual enemy who tries to undermine our confidence in God and His Word. This is the same strategy he employed in the Garden of Eden. Satan asked Eve: “Did God really say...?” (Gen. 3:1).

In view of this, it is no surprise to find that the first item of the believer’s armor that Paul mentions is the “belt of truth” (Eph. 6:14). There is also “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (v. 17). God’s Word is both a defensive and an offensive weapon in the spiritual struggle. Knowing God’s truth protects us from the deceitful schemes of the enemy, so we can recognize Satan’s lies and distortions. Jesus used the Word of God both defensively and offensively when Satan tempted Him in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1–11).

The breastplate protects the heart and consists of righteousness that is not our own but comes from Jesus Christ (Eph. 6:14). Knowledge of the gospel and a readiness to share it prepares us for action (v. 15). Faith, described as a shield, is the necessary companion to the truth. It is not enough to know what God has said. We must believe and rely upon it (v. 16).

>> Prayer is not just one part of your Christian life, it is essential! The spiritual battle is carried out through prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you frame your thoughts. Pray for your own needs and for family and friends as well.

Pray with Us

We ask for growth in our prayer lives. Grant us greater focus, perseverance, and understanding. Make us sensitive to Your prompting on matters or people to raise in prayer. Teach us to speak to You.

BY Dr. John Koessler

John Koessler is Professor Emeritus of Applied Theology and Church Ministries at Moody Bible Institute. John authors the “Practical Theology” column for Today in the Word of which he is also a contributing writer and theological editor. An award-winning author, John’s newest title is When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray (Kirkdale). Prior to joining the Moody faculty, he served as a pastor of Valley Chapel in Green Valley, Illinois, for nine years. He and his wife, Jane, now enjoy living in a lakeside town in Michigan.