Garments of Faith: Understanding and Applying the Armor of God

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, encourages us to put on the Armor of God. Now, when we think of armor, we might conjure images of robust, clunky suits – not exactly the attire for daily tasks like doing the dishes, caring for children, commuting, working, doing laundry or strolling with our dogs. The practicality seems elusive. Could there be a more symbolic interpretation that aligns with the nuances of our daily lives?

Absolutely! And God tells us all we need to know in His Word:

Ephesians 6:11-17 (NIV): "... Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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. 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. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted [shoes] with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Armor refers to protective covering or clothing worn to defend against physical harm, typically in the form of weapons or projectiles. It is designed to absorb or deflect the impact of blows and to provide a safeguard for the body. Armor has been historically used in warfare, combat, and various dangerous activities where protection from injury is crucial. In a metaphorical sense, the term "armor" is also used to describe a figurative protective shield or defense against challenges, difficulties, or spiritual battles.

Why? The Apostle Paul urges believers to embrace this divine attire as a defense against the cunning schemes of the devil. Our struggle, he emphasizes, transcends the physical, extending into the realms of rulers, authorities, and the dark forces that permeate the spiritual landscape. The call to put on the full armor is a recognition that our battle is not ordinary – it's against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms. This symbolic armor equips us to stand firm, not succumbing to the tactics of the enemy. It becomes our shield in the face of adversity, ensuring that, even on the day of evil, we can hold our ground and persevere. It's not just about standing; it's about standing victoriously, having utilized the divine protection provided by the full armor of God.

Our adversaries aren't fellow individuals, regardless of the opposition we might face. It calls for a discerning gaze, a spiritual truth, one that looks beyond the person to perceive the spirits at work behind their actions. 

As we walk in maturity, we gain the ability to see past the individual, embracing a role of safeguarding and protecting them. Love becomes our guide, showcasing the essence of Jesus, even as we spiritually engage in actions like rebuking, casting out, binding, and loosing the enemy in the heavenly realms. It's a dual approach—navigating human interactions with love and addressing the spiritual realm with authority.

As a Christian, the proximity to the heavenlies is inherent in the transformative act of receiving salvation. Through this divine experience, God establishes a profound connection by seating believers with Jesus in the heavenly realm. This spiritual reality signifies not just a future destination but a present reality, positioning Christians close to the heavenly realms from the moment they embrace the gift of salvation. It is a testament to the intimate relationship believers share with the divine, transcending earthly constraints and allowing them to partake in the heavenly realities through their connection with Jesus.

Ephesians 2:6 (NIV): "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus."

The Christian perspective often seems paradoxical in comparison to the world's understanding and is captured in the concept that "what is up, is down", and "what is down, is up". The notion that our comprehension might not always understand God's ways doesn't change that we are called to believe regardless of our personal understanding.

Mark 5:36 (NIV): "Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, 'Don't be afraid; just believe.'"

Another relevant passage is Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV):

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

This scripture highlights the divine perspective being beyond human understanding, emphasizing the call to trust and believe in God's ways, even when they may seem incomprehensible to us.

Considering the immense power, majesty, and wisdom that a Universal God would inherently possess, it becomes apparent that human language falls short in fully expressing the essence of God. It's a recognition that we should not find comfort in delaying obedience until we attain complete understanding.

A parallel can be drawn to the intricate workings of something as familiar as our eyeball – a marvel we do not fully comprehend, yet we don't hesitate to use it. 

In the same way, acknowledging the limitations of our understanding, we are urged not to delay obedience to God's guidance based on our need for complete comprehension.

Belt of Truth

Belt of Truth: Living with Integrity and Truthfulness

In Ephesians 6:14, the Belt of Truth is presented as a foundational piece of the spiritual armor. It symbolizes the importance of living a life rooted in integrity and truthfulness. Wearing this belt means embracing honesty in all aspects of life and aligning our actions with the truth revealed in God's Word.

The belt serves as a crucial support for our pants, preventing potential wardrobe malfunctions. Pants can symbolize a sense of modesty, decency, warmth, or covering. They are often associated with attire that provides physical protection, privacy, and decency.  It seems, however, that some of us are running around naked, and exposed. The remedy? Tighten that belt by infusing more truth into your life, anchoring yourself with honesty and authenticity from the Word of God.

Breastplate of Righteousness

Breastplate of Righteousness: Leading a Morally Upright Life

Ephesians 6:14 introduces the Breastplate of Righteousness, emphasizing the significance of moral uprightness. This spiritual armor guards the heart, urging believers to lead a life characterized by righteousness. It serves as a shield against moral compromise, protecting the core of one's being.

 Proverbs 4:23 (NIV): "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."

A breastplate is a piece of armor that covers the chest and upper body. Its purpose is to provide protection to the vital organs, such as the heart and lungs, during combat or in hazardous situations. The breastplate acts as a barrier against projectiles, weapons, or any potential threats directed towards the torso and heart.

Shoes of the Gospel

Shoes of the Gospel: Readiness to Share the Message of Peace and Salvation

Ephesians 6:15 introduces the Shoes of the Gospel, emphasizing the readiness to share the message of peace and salvation. Our shoes are more than mere accessories; they are faithful companions on our journey, guiding us wherever our paths lead. Beyond providing warmth and protection from the ground beneath, they shield us from potential obstacles meant to trip us, cut us or harm us in anyway.

Joshua 1:3 (NIV): "I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses."

In the spiritual realm, these symbolic shoes empower believers not just to stand firm but to stride with confidence, carrying the transformative message of salvation to every corner they tread. These spiritual shoes become a ready instrument, propelling us forward with a purpose—to share the gospel and spread the good news wherever our footsteps may take us.

Shield of Faith

Shield of Faith: Unwavering Trust and Confidence

Described in Ephesians 6:16, the Shield of Faith is a powerful symbol of unwavering trust and confidence in God. This spiritual shield provides protection against doubts, fears, and spiritual attacks. It's a reminder to trust in God's promises and remain steadfast in the face of challenges.

A shield in battle is more than a mere piece of defensive equipment; it becomes a critical extension of a warrior's strength and resilience on the battlefield. Crafted to withstand the impact of arrows, the thrust of swords, and the assault of various weapons, a shield serves as a stalwart defender. It is a guardian that stands between the warrior and the imminent threats, absorbing the blows that would otherwise reach the vulnerable core.

It provides a sense of security to the one who wields it, fostering the courage to advance amidst adversity. The relationship between a warrior and their shield is built on trust – a trust that the shield will hold firm, offering a barrier against the storm of battle. It can be angled to deflect attacks, used to create openings for counterattacks, and even serve as a rallying point for comrades. A shield is not just a passive defender; it actively contributes to the tactics and maneuvers of the battlefield.

Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV): "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

Faith is not a distant concept; it's a NOW reality. It's designed for this very moment, not reserved for some future time. Faith is about present belief—right here, right now. We choose to believe at this very moment in God's promises, in His unwavering love. This belief isn't postponed until after a meal or a nap; it's a prompt to act and believe NOW.

The potential for your life to be radically different, abundantly different, is in the present moment! So, do you have faith?

 ..."with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one."

In every circumstance, embrace the shield of faith, a potent defense against all the flaming darts launched by the evil one. Notice, it doesn't specify 'some'; it emphatically declares 'ALL' the flaming darts of the evil one. This resounding statement underscores the comprehensive protection that faith provides against the assaults of darkness. As the Scriptures affirm, without faith, pleasing God becomes an impossible endeavor.

Helmet of Salvation

Helmet of Salvation: Assurance and Security

The Helmet of Salvation, mentioned in Ephesians, can be associated with the concept of assurance and security in Christ. It safeguards the believer's mind, offering the assurance of salvation and protecting against doubts and spiritual assaults.

A helmet, both in its physical and metaphorical sense, serves the purpose of protecting the head and, by extension, the mind. In the physical realm, a helmet shields the head from physical injury and trauma, safeguarding the brain, a vital organ. It is a crucial component of personal protective equipment in various activities, especially those involving potential head impacts.

Metaphorically, a helmet represents the safeguarding of the mind and emotions. It serves as a protective barrier against mental and emotional harm, offering resilience in the face of challenges, stress, or negative influences. Emotionally, a metaphorical helmet helps shield the individual from psychological assaults, promoting mental well-being and providing a sense of security. It becomes a symbolic defense mechanism, preserving one's mental health and clarity amidst life's trials and tribulations.

Salvation refers to the deliverance or rescue of individuals from sin, spiritual death, and the consequences of separation from God. It is often considered a divine act or process through which individuals are reconciled with God, attain forgiveness of sins, and gain eternal life.

Salvation is often seen as a multidimensional act that goes beyond the reconciliation and redemption of individuals with God.

Many people testify to experiencing immediate well-being, peace, and calmness upon embracing salvation. This transformation often encompasses emotional and mental aspects, providing a sense of security and tranquility that may not have been present before. 

Salvation, therefore, has a holistic impact, addressing not only the spiritual dimension but also contributing to the emotional and mental well-being of those who embrace it.

Sword of the Spirit: Word of God

Sword of the Spirit: Word of God, Defensive and Offensive Weapon

Ephesians 6:17 introduces the Sword of the Spirit, representing the Word of God. This powerful weapon serves both defensively and offensively. Defensively, it helps believers stand firm against spiritual attacks, while offensively, it enables them to proclaim and apply the truth of God's Word. Examples include using Scripture to resist temptation and to share the gospel with others.

In my contemplation, I find the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God, to be an extraordinary instrument. It dives deep within us, like a surgical blade, executing functions of healing, saving, rescuing, teaching, protecting, guiding, transforming, birthing, and cautioning. It stands out as the most incredible gift one could ever receive, embodying God Himself. The phrase "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was God..." resonates, underscoring the Word's foundational role in creation and its essence as a source of life and truth.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

The description of our spiritual armor, comprising the belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, and sword, paints a comprehensive picture of protection from head to toe. This symbolic armor serves to safeguard not only the physical but also the mind, spirit, and soul.

The detailed instructions on putting on the whole armor of God, as outlined in Ephesians 6:10-18, showcase God's intention for us to be equipped for the challenges we encounter. It's a divine provision designed to protect, empower, and guide us through the various struggles in life.

In recognizing and appreciating God's incredible provision of spiritual armor, there is an invitation to deeper gratitude and understanding of His love. It also calls for a response from us – to actively engage with and utilize the tools He has provided for our spiritual journey.

To ensure its effectiveness, we are called to embrace truth, act with righteousness, share the gospel, maintain unwavering faith in the present, walk confidently in our salvation, and consistently abide in the Word of God. 

In practicing these principles, we can confidently affirm that our armor is securely on, formidable, and aligned with the divine, providing holistic protection across every aspect of our being.

Copyright © Amanda Allen, Kingdom Revelations, 2024. All rights reserved. This article may be shared with acknowledgment of the author and the original source. Artwork included.