In The First Deception: From Eden to Today's Digital Age we saw where deception began. In Escaping Deception in Today's Modern World we looked at how it operates today. But knowing there’s a battle isn’t enough. We need to know how to stand.
Paul writes in Ephesians 6:13
“Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” — Ephesians 6:13
This is what I pray churches will emphasize more. It’s not enough to say yes to Jesus and then be left untrained. Because the moment the devil comes back with lies and memories of your past, you need to know how to fight. Imagine if every believer, from day one, was shown how to put on the armor of God. How much stronger would the body of Christ be.
Here’s how Paul tells us to armor up:
The Belt of Truth
“Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth.”— Ephesians 6:14a
In battle, a soldier’s belt wasn’t decoration. It held the rest of the armor in place. Without it, everything would slip.
Truth does the same for us. Without truth, everything else falls apart. The world says truth shifts with opinion or culture. But God says truth is fixed in Him.
Think about it this way: If you don’t know what’s true, how do you know what’s worth living or dying for? God’s Word keeps everything in place so you don’t unravel when the lies come.
The Breastplate of Righteousness
“…and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.” — Ephesians 6:14b
The breastplate protected the chest and heart. Without it, a soldier was one strike away from death.
Righteousness protects our hearts. But this isn’t about being “good enough.” It’s about Jesus covering us with His righteousness when we believe in Him.
It’s like wearing a bulletproof vest you didn’t buy. You were given it because someone loves you. It guards your heart from guilt, shame, and compromise.
The Shoes of Peace
“…and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace.”
— Ephesians 6:15
A soldier’s shoes determined how far he could march and whether he could stand firm on rough ground.
God’s peace works the same way. It gives us stability when life shakes. It also gets us moving so we can carry the Gospel wherever we go.
Think about it. When you have peace, you’re not easily knocked over. When you share the Good News, you help others find their footing too.
The Shield of Faith
“In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” — Ephesians 6:16
A Roman shield was huge, like carrying a door in front of you. It wasn’t just for blocking, it was for extinguishing fiery arrows.
Faith works the same way. When the devil throws doubts, lies, or fear, faith in God blocks and extinguishes them.
For example: The lie says, “You’re worthless.” Faith says, “I am God’s child.” The lie says, “God won’t come through.” Faith says, “God is faithful.”
The Helmet of Salvation
“And take the helmet of salvation…”
— Ephesians 6:17a
The helmet protected a soldier’s head, the control center of the body.
Salvation protects our minds. It reminds us who we are and whose we are. When the enemy tries to replay old mistakes, the helmet reminds us: “I am saved. My past is forgiven. My future is secure.”
Think about it. Without a helmet, a soldier could be alive one second and taken out the next. Without salvation, your thoughts are exposed to attack. With salvation, your mind is guarded in Christ.
The Sword of the Spirit
“…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” — Ephesians 6:17b
Every other piece of armor is defensive. The sword is the only offensive weapon. And it’s sharp.
The Word of God cuts through deception. That’s why Jesus used Scripture every time Satan tempted Him in the wilderness.
Think about it. Arguments fade, opinions shift, but God’s Word stands forever. When lies come, quoting and believing God’s Word is like swinging a sword that the enemy cannot block.
Prayer: Our Lifeline in Battle
“With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit…” — Ephesians 6:18
Prayer isn’t a walkie-talkie for comfort. It’s a direct line to the Commander. It’s how you call in strength, wisdom, and backup.
Too often we treat prayer like a last resort. In reality, it’s the very air we breathe in battle. Without it, we’re fighting blind.
Think of it this way. No soldier would go into war without communication. Prayer is constant communication with God. It keeps you alive.
Standing Firm with Hope
Every piece of the armor points back to Jesus. He is our truth, our righteousness, our peace, our salvation, our faith, our Word, and our intercessor.
I pray churches everywhere teach this with urgency and joy. Because when believers are equipped, the church becomes unstoppable. When disciples are trained, the devil’s schemes lose power.
Believers, put on the armor daily. Do not step into battle unprotected. Skeptics, ask yourself this. If you’re not wearing God’s armor, what armor are you wearing?
James 4:7 says, “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
The serpent is still up to crafty schemes today, but Jesus has already crushed his head. And when you stand in Him, you will not fall.
Armor of God Prayer
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, I put on the full armor of God today so I may stand firm.
I put on the belt of truth. Your Word is truth. Help me to recognize lies and hold on to what You say.
I put on the breastplate of righteousness. Thank You, Jesus, for covering my heart with Your righteousness. Guard me from guilt, shame, and compromise.
I put on the shoes of peace. Let me walk in Your peace no matter what I face today, and let me carry the Gospel everywhere I go.
I take up the shield of faith. Strengthen my trust in You so I can extinguish every lie, fear, and doubt the enemy throws at me.
I put on the helmet of salvation. Protect my mind with the assurance that I am Yours, saved and secure in Christ.
I take up the sword of the Spirit. Remind me to speak and believe Your Word, which is alive and sharper than any sword.
And I pray at all times in the Spirit. Keep me close to You, Father. Guide me, strengthen me, and help me to stand firm today.
In Jesus mighty name, Amen
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