Wednesday, August 7
Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:14-17)
For the first piece of armor we are to wear, we are instructed to put on "the belt of truth." For a Roman soldier, this belt probably refers to the leather apron which hung under the armor and protected the thighs, rather than the sword belt or the protective girdle worn over the armor.
The idea of fastening clothing securely around one’s waist signifies preparation for vigorous activity (Luke 12:35, 37; 17:8), in this case, readiness for battle. Paul’s language clearly refers to Isaiah 11, which refers to Jesus: "He will wear righteousness like a belt and truth like an undergarment" (verse 5). Within its Old Testament context the rule of God’s Anointed One in the divine kingdom will be characterized by righteousness and truth.
The armor which the Messiah wears in battle is now provided for His people as they engage in spiritual warfare. "Truth", which occupies a prominent place in Ephesians, refers to the truth of God revealed in the Gospel, which has its outworking in the lives of believers who are members of the new humanity.
As we put on this piece of the Messiah’s armor, we will be strengthened by God’s truth revealed in the Gospel, as a consequence of which they will display the characteristics of the Anointed One in their attitudes, language, and behaviour. The world is in darkness, ignorant of God's truth. Truth is light. In this way we resist the devil, giving him no opportunity to gain an advantage over us.
Doing the Word
Stand your ground and put on all God's armor.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know I am at war in this world. I pray for grace to stand my ground, to be sensitive, and to put on the complete armor of the Spirit. In Jesus' name, Amen.