Preparing For Battle – Day 1

Truth:

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.
Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV)

Thought:

When the children of Israel entered the promise land, it was to engage in battle with the enemies whose sin reached its full measure (Genesis 15:16). When they entered the land flowing with milk and honey, it wasn’t a holiday. It wasn’t time to relax. It was time to engage the enemy.

And the time for us to do the same is now.

Our enemy isn’t flesh and blood, and God is good so He hasn’t called us to do something He hasn’t already equipped us for.

God has provided us armor and “putting it on” is more than just saying, “I have put on the full armor of God!” Having the armor of God on is living out its implications for our lives.? Living with the armor of God in place is what we’re going to be reminded of this first week as we refrain from any thought or talk that is contrary to the will of God expressed in Scripture.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for preparing us for every battle that we face. Thank You that You never leave us or forsake us. Thank You, You’ve called us your partners and co-workers and friends. Help us, Holy Spirit, to be overwhelmed with that once more.

Challenge:

We start by preparing ourselves to allow God to change us and a vocal declaration of truth opens the way for that to begin.

Just by saying, “I have put on the full armor of God!” doesn’t mean we have… but it does mean we’re willing. It’s not a magic formula, but it has power to break down thoughts that set themselves up against the knowledge of God.

The challenge today should be easy for most, but some may find it a little silly or trite. Watch your judgmental attitude.  When we’re teachable, God can do miracles.

Today’s challenge is to vocalize the declaration today and everyday this week we are reminded to have the full armor of God in place.

Then thank God for His Goodness in preparing you for every battle. Thank Him by faith if you can’t see it in the moment.

Declaration:

I choose to put on the full armor of God. I put on truth. I put on righteousness. I put on peace. I put on faith. I put on salvation. And I choose to learn to use the word of God with great power and in love.