Having just concluded a study in “Monday Minutes” regarding the spiritual armor we have in the Kingdom of God, I found it providential to run across the following article by Elder Michael Ivey on the same topic. I felt it appropriate to share it with you here. It succinctly summarizes what we have been studying for the past several weeks.

May the Lord bless you is my prayer!

Elder Chris McCool, Pastor

Christian Warfare

by Elder Michael Ivey

“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.” Ephesians 6: 12-13

The strategy and tactics of Christian warfare (and we ARE engaged in a war) are not intended to defeat other people. Their purpose and design are to resist evil by defending ourselves; and, to win victories over the power and influence of the spiritual wickedness of the devil. In this regard, we are to engage the enemy by equipping ourselves with the whole armour of God; which includes:

1. Girded with Truth: Strengthen ourselves with the core governing principle of the immutable, eternal truth of God’s Supreme Being who is Creator of all that exists and the source of all moral authority.

2. Breastplate of Righteousness: Set our hearts, our dearest affections, on God ‘s just authority according to His morally impeccable righteousness.

3. Feet shod with the Gospel: We are to engage in a godly walk relying on the principles and examples contained in the gospel to guide us in all aspects of life, including opposing Satan and those who do his bidding.

4. Shield of Faith: We are to protect ourselves (and others) with a body shield of confidence and trust in God by believing in His holy and righteous Being, love, wisdom and power; and so, withstand all attacks by the forces of evil.

5. Helmet of Salvation: In response to every peril we are to frame our thinking with the knowledge we are saved by God’s grace; by which we can joyfully anticipate deliverance in this life and the life to come through our hope of eternal life.

6. Sword of God’s Word: We are to defend ourselves and counter the powers of Satan using the knowledge, tactics and skills presented in God’s word as befit followers of Jesus Christ.

7. Prayer: Using prayer, we are to stay in continual contact with God, who as the “captain of our salvation” guides and supplies us according to our specific needs; and we are to seek His help and supply for all others so engaged in the Christian warfare.