Daily Devotional for Thursday 3rd October
Strength for the Spiritual Battle
Our Bible reading today focuses on being strong in the Lord and putting on the armour of God. Paul uses the idea of armour to help us understand how to stand firm against the challenges and temptations we face in life. We are in a spiritual battle, and we need God’s help to be strong.
In verse 10, Paul begins by saying, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” This is a call to rely on God’s strength, not our own. We often try to face our problems alone, but God invites us to trust Him and His power. When we rely on God, we can find the strength to face anything.
In verses 11-12, Paul tells us to put on the full armour of God so we can stand against the devil’s schemes. He reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. This means that our battles may not always be visible; they can involve temptation, fear, and doubt. We need to be prepared.
Paul then describes the pieces of armour we need:
1. The belt of truth (verse 14) – Truth helps us stand firm and avoid lies.
2. The breastplate of righteousness – This protects our hearts and helps us live rightly.
3. The shoes of the gospel of peace – These remind us to share God’s peace and be ready to spread His message.
4. The shield of faith (verse 16) – Faith helps us block doubts and fears.
5. The helmet of salvation – This protects our minds and reminds us of our identity in Christ.
6. The sword of the Spirit (verse 17) – This is the Word of God, which we can use to combat lies and temptation.
We can stand firm against life's challenges by putting on this armour. Each piece has a purpose and helps us grow in our faith. Let’s be reminded to put it on each and every day.
Time to reflect…
1. Am I relying on God’s strength in my daily life? How can I invite God into my struggles and ask for His help?
2. Which piece of the armour of God might I need to focus on the most right now?
3. How can I encourage friends or family to rely on God’s strength and truth?
Pause to pray…
Why not take a moment to listen to ‘O Church Arise’ by Keith and Kristyn Getty, which speaks of putting on the Armour of God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZmS81yLjMg
‘With shield of faith and belt of truth
We'll stand against the devil's lies
An army bold whose battle cry is love
Reaching out to those in darkness’
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your strength and power. Help me to be strong in You every day. Teach me to put on the armour You provide so I can stand firm against challenges and temptations.
Help me to wear the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of peace. Give me the shield of faith to block my doubts and fears, the helmet of salvation to protect my mind, and the sword of the Spirit to guide me with Your Word.
Remind me that I am not alone in this battle. Fill me with Your Spirit and help me rely on You this day and always. Amen.
