Every time I leave my house, I have a checklist: phone, wallet, keys. I have added a few items since the pandemic reached our community. Mask, hand sanitizer, wipes… I went to a demonstration a few nights ago: clerical collar, sign, goggles… There are certain things we need to make us feel prepared to face the challenges we might experience. In recent weeks, we have encountered new challenges and faced new fears. The additional “armor” may feel like a heavy burden at times.

In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we can read about another kind of armor. Christians often refer to this passage when we need extra strength from God to face the day. Whether we are facing a virus, political strife, racial injustice, or any other hardship, we are reminded to turn to God for strength. What does God’s strength look like in us? Truth, righteousness, readiness, peace, faith, and salvation. Which ones do you need to face this day?

The Armor of God

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵ and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 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.

When you feel afraid, try taking a moment to rest in prayer with the Lord. Return to the gospel of peace. Ask how God may be guiding your hands and feet to act in faith.