The Whole Armor of God Part 1 The belt of truth
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the [a]wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [b]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which, you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—
Recently I came across a brief overview of what the above armour of God does for us. (1) the belt of truth anchors us (2) the breastplate of righteousness protects us (3) the shoes of peace give us stability (4) the shield of faith wards off blows (6) the helmet of salvation guards our head (7) the sword of the Spirit defends and attacks.
(1) The belt of truth = commitment to God's truth. 1 Peter 1:13 "gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully on the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ".
The belt of truth referred to the thick leather belt the Roman soldier wore to hold his tunic in place, and to which was attached the sheath for his sword. When the Roman soldier 'girded up his loins", he tucked his long outer robe under his belt so that it would not get in his way when running or fighting.
Let's have our minds prepared by being alert. It's the peace of God that is able to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. We can rest our hope fully on the grace that comes to us in our Lord and our Friend, letting our minds meditate on that truth.
Rich blessings
Kath
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