Our scripture this morning is Ephesians 6:10-11 (NASB1995).
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
Paul shares the “battle plan” in order to stand against evil: “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” We are called to trust in the Lord’s strength, not our own. Paul uses military imagery in this chapter to remind us of the tools we are given for spiritual protection.
Like the spiritual gifts Paul speaks of in 1 Corinthians 12-13, none of this is possible without love – God’s love for us and ours to Him in return. This is not just a random collection of things that might help us, but a planned and coordinated set of tools that only work as part of His plan.
Jesus embodied these gifts and showed us how we could be part of what God is doing in creation. He taught that we can be forgiven and made new, ready to share the Gospel in every part of the world.
Loving Lord, help us to use the gifts You give wisely, that all Your children may come to know the truth of Christ and choose salvation. Amen.
