This month we celebrate being Canadian. As the national anthem clearly sings, “We Stand on Guard” for our country and our freedoms. We have been standing for many things in the last three years. In 1 Corinthians, Paul says to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding the work of the Lord”. We are in a season where standing firm in our faith and for the truth is every present.
How do we continue standing firm in the midst of such darkness? We know that in the end days we shall see darkness spread as we are seeing now, however we are given tools and guidance in the Word on what to do: Ephesians 6:11 "Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." It says clearly that we are not to fight flesh but fight rulers, authorities and the powers of darkness in the world. This means we are not walking around with real armour on, but spiritual armour.
Standing Firm by putting on the Armour of God
Ephesians 6:13-17Therefore 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 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.
Belt of truth buckled around your waist Standing in truth can be difficult, especially when it is hard to know what the truth is. However, we always have a place to turn when we are unsure. Know God’s truth and always speak it.
Breastplate of righteousness The breastplate covered your heart and stomach, meaning it protects your most vital organs. Guard your heart with righteousness. Follow what God values and have a righteous heart posture.
Feet fitted with readiness Though self explanatory, in a battle we must know our footing. Standing firm means we need to be nimble on our feet and ready to move or stand with whatever the call has for us.
Shield of faith Our faith is our shield. We can protect ourselves from the enemy’s arrows and fires by covering ourselves with our faith.
Helmet of Salvation The helmet protects your head. So protect your mind and thoughts by using your salvation and the knowledge of God’s love.
The sword of the spirit The Word of God is our sword. Stand on the Word, read it, consume it and let it become a part of your very being.
Holy Spirit Ephesians 6:18 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. Holy Spirit is our helper. Pray and use that connection to help you stand in these dark times.
We know from the Word that we are coming closer to the end times. We see the book of revelation jumping off the page and becoming something tangible. 1 Corinthians 16:13 "Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong."
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