Properly Equipped!

When a skateboarder goes to a skateboard park, in wisdom they put on their kneepads, elbow pads, and helmet. The football player puts on the cleats, shoulder pads and helmet. The hockey goalie wears the helmet, facemask, gloves, and all the padding covering their front, arms, and legs. Deciding to utilize only some of the protective gear would not provide adequate protection. The skateboarder does not know beforehand how they might fall when involved in their sport, the football player does not always know how and where they will be hit during a game, and the hockey goalie knows the puck can fly quickly from any direction. The wise choice is to properly utilize all the protective gear made available for the particular activity.

As Paul encouraged the Ephesians regarding the spiritual battle in which we as Christians are engaged, he urged. . .

"(11) Put on THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. (12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (13) Therefore take up THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." ( Ephesians 6:11-13 ESV)

Put on and take up THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD! To state it twice must mean Paul did not want the wisdom to be missed. There is the need to put on THE WHOLE ARMOR because our spiritual foe will try to attack us anywhere possible. Just one piece will not be sufficient. What would we choose to leave off and so be exposed? The belt, the breastplate, the shoes (or shin guards), the shield, the helmet, or the sword? ( Ephesians 6:14-17) Is it not all important; the truth, the righteousness, the readiness, the faith, the salvation, and God's Word accompanied by unceasing prayer? ( Ephesians 6:14-18) What would we possibly dare to go without? We need THE WHOLE ARMOR in order to be properly protected and press on victoriously in the strength of the Lord's might. ( Ephesians 6:10) May we accept all that the Lord has provided for use in the spiritual battle that rages on, being thankful for the power beyond ourselves that assures the victory.

Have a great day SUITABLY SUITED UP FOR PRESSING ON VICTORIOUSLY WTH CHRIST!
Carl

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