“Stand therefore…” (v.14)

Having just described the importance of standing firm in God’s strength against the schemes of the devil

in the previous verses, God provides the specifics of His armor.

“having fastened on the belt of truth,” (v.14)

The first piece of armor listed is the belt of truth. Truth is to be closely fastened to our inmost being.

And what is truth? The enemy is the father of lies (John 8:44) but Jesus is the way, the TRUTH and the

life (John 14:6). And the truth sets us free (John 8:32)

“and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,” (v.14)

Our righteousness is like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). However, when we believe God (like Abraham) through

faith in Jesus it will be counted as righteousness (Genesis 15:6, Romans 3:22).

“and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” (v.15)

In the midst of a passage about standing firm, there is a description of shoes that are ready to carry the

gospel of peace. We are called to stand against the schemes of the evil one by taking the Gospel to

others (Isaiah 52:6, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8).

“In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts

of the evil one;” (v.16)

“Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old

received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of

God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.” (Hebrews 11:1-3 ESV)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”

(Ephesians 2:8 ESV)

“and take the helmet of salvation” (v.17)

Salvation occurs when we recognize we are sinners in need of God. When we acknowledge that God’s

ways are best, it provides protection of our mind.

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3 ESV)



Today, put on the full armor of God. And stand firm.

By LaRaine Rice