The Armor of God: Feet Fitted or Readiness (Part 3)

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Spiritual Warfare

Spiritual Warfare

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore 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. – Ephesians 6:10-17

This is a way overdue continuation of my Armor of God series. In Part 1 and Part 2 of “The Armor of God,” we talked about Spiritual Warfare and the armor necessary to protect and prepare us for battle. In Part 3 we will discuss Ephesians 6: 15.

 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

The Roman soldier knew his feet must be firmly planted, prepared for battle in every sense. He would also know his opponent’s battle plan and strategies. His shoes were studded with spikes, like cleats. The studs helped with balance and kept him from slipping in the heat of battle. Without wisdom and steady footing are essential components in battle. The best armor wouldn’t help if the soldier fell to the ground beneath his attacker.

Knowing God’s word, the Bible, serves as our studded shoes. Scripture gives us an understanding of Satan’s battles waged against us and the tools to withstand attack. Wisdom, strength, and courage comes when the gospel of peace resonates in our hearts.

Attacks come from many different directions. If you feel inadequate, remember that God tells us in 2 Corinthians 3:5: “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God.

If Satan zings us with the sins of our past, remember what God says in Isaiah 1:18, “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul tells us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

If you are feeling anxious, remember 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” Or, Isaiah 40:31, “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

If your health is suffering, remember that our God is a God of healing. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Jeremiah 30:17 says, “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the LORD”

Satan can attack anywhere, at any time. Whether you are suffering in your marriage, finances, health, or something else, scripture is filled with ample weaponry to guard against the countless arrows of spiritual attack.

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. – Psalm 9:9-10

Climbing Shoes – Feet Fitted with Readiness

Your climbing shoes are specially designed to grip the rock, keeping you from sliding, even on the tiniest of holds. As you know, proper foot placement and trusting your feet is essential. Allow your shoes to remind you to always trust God’s Word, and the peace that comes from Him. Whenever you find yourself stressed or struggling with challenges, both on the rock and in life, remember to rest in the promises of God’s Word. His truth will never allow your feet to slip.

Spiritual Warfare

Our climbing shoes are not just meant to keep us from slipping. They are also meant to move us upward. God does not just want us to be prepared for battle defensively. Offensively, we should wage war against Satan by sharing the gospel of peace with others. Speaking the truth of who God is and sharing the message of salvation is like charging into the territory of Satan, and waging war on him instead of us being attacked. The more we speak the message of Christ to others the firmer our footing, ensuring a successful climb.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. – Peter 3:15

The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip. – Psalm 37:30-31

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