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This verse is taken from:
Ephesians 6. 10-14
“search the scriptures” John 5:39
We are at war! The verses which comprise our reading today remind us forcibly of the adversary and his strategy. This is not a minor skirmish or haphazard campaign. There is a carefully devised strategy. Here it is called ‘the wiles of the devil’. All his cunning, wisdom, and experience are invested in this battle. At times, it is hand to hand combat, ‘we wrestle’, v. 12, and, at other times, it is sword against sword, v. 17. On further occasions, he sends his fiery darts from a distance, v. 16. With the skill of a master tactician, he is seeking to prevent believers from enjoying all they possess in the heavenlies in Christ.
But we are told as well of the armour and its sufficiency. We are to take it up and wear it constantly. There may well be an ‘evil day’, v. 13, when the battle will rage with greater intensity, but there is never a complete ceasefire.
Will he attack by shaking our foundational belief in the assurance of salvation? Then, we are to have our feet firmly planted in the truth of the gospel. Will he attack our faith and confidence in God? There is a shield of faith to deflect and quench every dart he unleashes. Will he assail our minds? There is a helmet to protect our thinking and preserve us. In our hands is placed the word which God through the Spirit has spoken to our hearts. With this, we can parry every thrust of the foe. With our loins girt about with truth, our walk and movements controlled by truth, and our affections guarded by the breastplate of righteousness, we are equipped to stand and to claim the ground of blessing Christ has procured for us.
But Paul would urge one final point upon us. Don’t forget to keep in touch with headquarters. ‘Praying always with all prayer and supplication’, v. 18. An awareness of dependency is vital. No self-confidence or boasting is allowed in this conflict. We are totally dependent on the mercy and preserving care of God as we face the foe.
The battle will rage today. The battlefield is not just when you leave your home, but it is constantly within your mind and heart. Take up the whole armour of God and stand!
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