God’s Armor
Laurie Warner / Receptionist
“With the breastplate of righteousness in place.” Ephesians 6:14
After a recent conversation with one of my daughters, I was thinking about some of the things we talked about and started feeling bad about them. My thoughts were, “I should have done better.” Although those were not her words at all, that's what rolled around in my head. I couldn't pinpoint anything, but a feeling of condemnation came over me that I couldn't shake.
Then a friend sent me an article by Jeffery Curtis Poor entitled, “Why most Christians misunderstand the armor of God.” I was interested since it went along with Pastor Justin's sermon series on the Armor of God.
When the author spoke of the breastplate of righteousness, he said that it protects the heart. This piece of armor guarded what mattered most. It was the most vital piece of defense. It protects us from accusation and shame. It's not about our moral performance. This righteousness is given, not earned. It's what Jesus has done for us, not what we have done for Him. One of the enemy's favorite tactics is condemnation, saying, “You should have done better.” Gee, where have I heard that before?
The breastplate of righteousness reminds me that my standing with God is secure, not because I am perfect, but because Jesus is. That is the truth I stand on. My heart is guarded by His righteousness, not mine. There is no room for shame or accusations. My heart is guarded when shame tries to take me out of the fight.
For me, just remembering that I'm in a spiritual battle every day helps me to be on the alert against those voices of accusation that seem to come out of nowhere. But when I have on my armor, through prayer, I am ready to face the battles of the day with victory. Prayer is what holds the armor together. It's how we stay connected to the One who provides the armor. I'm so thankful for the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit who gives me discernment when I need it.
“And pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” Ephesians 6:18