Best. Wardrobe. Ever.
I’m a pretty sound sleeper, but a few nights ago I was awakened by a loud yowl. Something had riled our Golden retriever and although she normally doesn’t bark when she’s inside – she was perturbed enough to let out some shrill barks of alarm.
Whether she heard something outside or just had a bad dream, she wasn’t messing around. Armed with her sharp bark and low, throaty growl, she was on her feet and ready for action.
On the look out
The apostle Peter shares this word of warning:
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” 1 Peter 5:8
We do have an enemy. And he doesn’t play nice. Did you notice he’s compared to a roaring lion? I’ve seen lions at the zoo and watched documentaries about these big cats on TV, and although they may look cute and cuddly like our furry kitties, I definitely wouldn’t want to meet one in the wild.
Be aware
When lions are hunting, they’re very stealthy, creeping up on their prey. “Once within striking distance, they bound in among the startled animals, knock one down and kill it with a bite to the neck or throat.” (www.outtoafrica.nl)
These vivid descriptions paint an accurate picture of our foe. He’s portrayed in the Bible as crafty, deceptive and a masterful con-artist (Genesis 3:1-5). He doesn’t play by the rules and he won’t hesitate to knock you down when you least expect it. No wonder we need to be on guard.
Be prepared
But the Lord doesn’t expect us to go into battle unarmed. The last chapter of Ephesians outlines our strategy. When applied, it’s a fool-proof method to overcome our enemy and to be victorious in the fight.
Let’s take a look at Ephesians
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”Ephesians 6:10-18
The real battle
Make no mistake – this battle is not against humans, it’s against our unseen enemy: the devil and his angels. It’s clear the power to fight against these “principalities” and “powers” comes from the Lord. Our strength is in Him.
Our Heavenly Father opens a spiritual closet filled with all kinds of protective gear and invites us to put it on:
Belt of truth
Breastplate of righteousness
Gospel shoes of peace
Helmet of salvation
Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God)
Shield of faith
Best. Wardrobe. Ever. Each piece fits perfectly, and once we’ve got our battle gear on, we’re ready to fight. But our Commander issues surprising orders: resist the devil and stand.
Important instructions
Notice the final important instructions in order to be victorious: we’re to watch and pray. Jesus used these same two words to caution His disciples before His crucifixion:
“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”Matthew 26:41
We need to be aware of our weaknesses and besetting sins; easy targets for our enemy. When we confess these areas to the Lord in prayer and ask for His strength to turn from them, the victory is ours.
Your turn
Are you aware that the enemy wants to take you down? What step will you take today to apply the principles of the Lord’s battle plan?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for warning me of the devil’s schemes. Help me be strong in You, and to be alert and watchful. What a comfort to know Your armor fits me perfectly, and all I have to do is resist and stand. Help me be faithful today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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