20110515
Christians are servants, stewards, disciples, pilgrims, priests and athletes. In these roles, they face all kinds of obstacles because of satan’s schemes targeted at preventing them from completing the race. Herein Christians take on yet another role – that of a soldier. The Apostle Paul uses the Roman soldier’s armour as a metaphor for the equipment needed in our spiritual warfare.
Belt of Truth. Jesus Christ is our truth and foundation. When we know the truth, the truth sets us free (Jn. 8:32). We are to test everything against the truth and hold on to what is good (1 Thess. 5:21).
Breastplate of Righteousness. We need to be right before God to be effective (Isa. 59:2, Ps. 66:18). We come before God clothed with the righteousness of Jesus Christ.
Feet fitted with readiness that comes from the Gospel of Peace. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Rom 10:15b). The Christian soldier advances in this spiritual warfare, bringing the good news of the gospel of peace wherever he goes.
Shield of Faith. The shield is a soldier’s first line of defence. “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all” (Isa 7:9). If you rest secure in the promises of God and fix your eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of your faith, satan cannot derail you.
Helmet of Salvation. In 1 Thess. 5:8-9, we are told to put on the hope of salvation as a helmet, for we have been freed from condemnation through Jesus. Do not allow satan to be your accuser.
Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. The sword is the main offensive weapon. Jesus in his encounter with satan (Matt. 4) used Scriptures to ward him off. When attacked by satan, are you able to recall Bible verses to ward him off? You have to read, study, meditate and memorise Scriptures to sharpen your sword. Paul reminds us that in addition to donning the armour, there is the very important weapon – prayer. “Military Defence is about deterring aggression, being operationally ready and to have the ability to meet all kinds of challenges during any kind of emergency or scenario” (Singapore’s Total Defence website). As a soldier in God’s Army, are you operationally ready? What is your defence alert posture? Are you ignorantly cruising in peace time readiness mode or are you always on maximum alert?
