As believers in Jesus, we understand that we will face trials and persecutions in this life. It’s part and parcel of being a believer.  And consequently, we need to learn how to navigate times of adversity.

1 Peter 4:12-16 says, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.”  

As a result, what’s important, is how we approach trials and persecution.  This is where the armour of God comes in.  Without this, we are unable to stand strong.

Ephesians 6:13-17 says, “Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

WHAT DOES THE ARMOUR OF GOD DO?

The armour of God protects us and enables us to stand firm in victory. It helps us endure times of trial and persecution that will surely come.  Let’s take a look at each piece of armour now.

• The belt of truth refers to the truths of scripture. These help us stand against the lies of the devil. It also helps us to live with integrity.
• The breastplate of righteousness is the righteousness of Jesus which covers our hearts and protects us from satan’s accusations.
• The shoes of the gospel remind us that we are to follow and obey Jesus always.
• The shield of faith helps us to resist the fiery darts of the devil.
• The Helmet of salvation helps us have peace and assurance of our salvation.
• The Sword of the Spirit is the bible.

Every piece of armour is critical. Today, however, I want to highlight the sword of the Spirit which we know is the word of God (the bible).  It’s the only piece of armour that is a weapon of offence for attacking. All the other weapons are defensive for protection. This reminds us that we are to use this weapon offensively against satan when he attacks us. Romans 10:17 reminds us that faith comes from hearing the word of God.  And the only way we can endure and stand firm in trials is by having a strong faith in God. 

As a result, we need to study and know the bible. This will help us to stand on the word in our trials. The bible verses we store in our hearts and memorize will help us to fight the devil, persevere and even grow in our faith during trials.

Therefore, let’s study the word of God faithfully so that we can stand strong. Study the word of God so that you can use it to draw others to Christ.  Study the word of God so that you can powerfully resist the devil. In this way, you will be able to fulfil everything God has called you to do. And you will finish this race strong!