Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take a stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Ephesians 6:10-17
My words…
Praise
Praise be to God in heaven who sees everything I can’t! You see the vile tactics of the Devil and his forces – a relentless battle in the heavens. Even after Jesus stepped from the tomb, proclaiming victory over death, Satan battles on. Unlike earthly wars, You do not battle Satan to control territory; You battle for my heart. Your motivation does not spring from hatred, arrogance, or greed but from love. Love for me. You do not leave me vulnerable, without protection. You wouldn’t do that; it’s not how You treat Your children. You thwart the schemes of Satan by providing me with my own armor. Armor from You forged especially for me! It isn’t heavy or ill-fitting, and best of all, it contains no chinks. I am battle-ready and confident wearing it because the flaming arrows of the Devil will not penetrate it. I am unworthy to wear it, but I accept it as a gift from You.
Prayer for me
The Devil has a quiver of arrows aflame, each directed at me – the flaming arrows of pride, doubt, indifference, prejudice. Stir my spirit to strap on Your armor each day and be ready to stand against unseen forces that delight in wearing away my will to serve You.
Forgive me
Forgive me for giving into the temptation to shed Your armor. Satan’s lies are so believable and custom-made for my ears. Forgive me when I lower my shield, lay aside my sword, and pay attention to the lies.
Prayer for others
Battles are chaotic, noisy, painful, and terrifying. Some of us would rather run than fight. But You’re not encouraging us to fight – You’re preparing us to stand. So today, I pray for all who continue to stand against Satan’s wiles. When they tire, they don’t fall. They stay standing. Like the mother who throws off bitterness and forgives her child’s killer. And the couple who decides to confront their problems and stay married. And the church that rebuilds after an arsonist attacks. Continue to grant them courage and strength to stand in the face of evil.
Thank You
Thank You for fashioning my armor of truth, righteousness, peace and faith – all characteristics of You. And I thank Your armies of heavenly hosts, including Gabriel, and Michael the archangel. They battle for me because of their devotion and adoration of You.
More praise
I fill my mind with images of the battles in the heavens – Your armies of angels never tiring, holding the line. Your battle plans are perfect because You know the enemy. You know his weaknesses. He cannot out-smart You. He cannot out-maneuver You. All majesty and praise to the One who protects me. You are my Savior.
