In my last blog I started talking about the role the Holy Spirit plays in the use of our armor (Ephesians 6:10-20). I want to conclude that blog this time.
We are commanded to take up the shield of faith to fight off Satan’s attacks (Ephesians 6:16). The Spirit gives greater faith to those who have obediently trusted the Lord to use them in ways that cannot be done through human strength, wisdom or connections. Faith is not an emotion we whip up but a deep-settled conviction concerning God and His faithfulness. Ask the Lord to help you grow in the quantity and quality of your faith.
The helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17) speaks of our assurance of salvation as well as our confidence in what God has done, is doing and will do in our lives. God’s Spirit within us assures us of our security and place with Him, now and forever. Without that assurance fear would dominate us, our faith would crumble and we’d be open to attacks by the enemy.
We know God’s power rests in His Word and when we speak it we speak God’s truth and power into a situation. Paul calls that weapon, our only offensive weapon, the “sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 617). It is God’s Spirit which brings verses to mind and empowers us to use them accurately against our enemy. Ask God to help you better know, understand and use His Word. He will help you as you memorize the Word as well, and that is most helpful to do.
In addition, God says we are to pray in the Spirit on all occasions (Ephesians 6:18). It is the Holy Spirit that leads and guides as we pray. He shows us what to pray for and how to pray for that situation. He gives us the insight, the words and the perseverance needed to bring these requests to God in prayer. Prayer is a most powerful weapon, the Holy Spirit guides us in its most effective use. be sensitive to His prompting and leading when you pray!
Ephesians 6:16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Spend some time thanking God for all He has provided for you through His Holy Spirit.
Ask Him to help you better use the armor He has given you. Pray specifically for any weak spots you see. What must you do to improve in these areas? Ask God to help you do so starting today.
Jerry Schmoyer
Christian Training Organization
SW.ChristianTrainingOrganization.org