BE STRONG IN THE LORD

Ephesians 6:10-18
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world’s rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the Good News of peace; 16 above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints: (WEB)

Today's Bible reading is often quoted when describing spiritual warfare. It is definitely one of the more descriptive passages of Scripture that can help us visualize the armor of God. When I reflect on how this instruction from the Apostle Paul applies to me, I think that the first two verses hold the secret to what follows.

First things first... Paul says for us to 'be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might'. Any manner of spiritual authority that we have does not originate with us, but with God Himself. It is the strength of His might, not ours. 

I think we can get into some trouble if we think that somehow we can muster up strength in our own ability to do for ourselves something that only God can do for us. It is His power, His strength, His authority and His armor. All we can do is 'put on' His helmet, His breastplate, His shield, etc. 

My prayer today is that the Holy Spirit would give us wisdom on how to practically walk out this passage of Scripture in our lives. May we always know that the battle is the Lord's and that His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Exodus 14:14
The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (NIV)