Sometimes in the busyness or pressures of life, we may find ourselves striving hard to survive on our own. Maybe it’s unintentional. Maybe it’s because we’re weary, or we are quickly overcome with fear. But in the very times we most need to draw closer to God, we can get lost in our own thoughts and worries. We forget that what we need most, God's protection and the peace of His presence, are freely available to those who love Him and walk under His covering.
A reminder for today: He’s given us everything we need in this life to stand strong. He never asked us to battle through the struggles all on our own; but He reminds us to come to Him, and rely on His strength and grace for each day.
In some of the most difficult times in life, I’ve learned the power of praying God’s words back to Him, and praying on the armor of God. It alone holds the ability to soothe our souls, to refresh our spirits, and cause hope to rise above the difficulties we might be feeling. And though our circumstances may not be immediately changed, we’re reminded through His Truth to set our eyes on Him. And that’s the best place for them to be in all of life.
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“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. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (Ephesians 6:10-18)
The breastplate of righteousness is the second piece of armor that Paul talks about in this powerful passage. Without the belt of truth buckled around us first, the breastplate of righteousness couldn’t be securely put on to stay “in place.” We need the truth of Christ and His righteousness living in us, over us, in order to stand strong and be light in this dark world. A soldier’s breastplate gave protection over the most vital organs in his body. Without it, his heart, lungs, and life itself would be at great risk. The strong, supportive breastplate positioned securely in place was necessary to withstand the enemy and fight any battles. Here’s a few reminders from Scripture of what Christ’s righteousness means for us today as believers:
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We are redeemed and set free: “But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption,” 1 Corinthians 1:30
We are forgiven and healed: “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” 1 Peter 2:24
We are called to live righteously in this world, as He is righteous: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
We have His power living in us, to help us in all things: “The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry.” Psalm 34:15
Jesus took our sin and unrighteousness on Himself, so that in Him we can be made clean: “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
God reminds us that we must actively “pursue” His righteousness: “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” 1 Timothy 6:11
There is great reward in pursuing His righteousness: “Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.” Proverbs 21:21
God tells us that our longings to live righteously will be satisfied in Him: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Matthew 5:6
His name, His banner over us is, “the Lord is our righteousness,” which brings great power and safety: “In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will dwell in safety; and this is the name by which she will be called: the LORD is our righteousness.'” Jeremiah 33:16
God reminds us of the importance of living by faith: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "But the righteous man shall live by faith." Romans 1:17
The Messiah, Christ Jesus, is our example of securely fastening God’s righteousness in place over His life: “Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist.” Isaiah 11:5
No matter what we go through in this life, or what we're up against today, we don't have to be shaken. We're safe with Him. His righteousness living in us, called to make a difference in this world. He sent His only Son, Jesus, to give us lasting freedom and peace.
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Dear God,
We thank you for the gift of Christ in our lives. We thank you for the power of your Holy Spirit living in us, through us, every single day. We’re so aware of our constant need for you. Today as we read through these verses, we’re reminded again to securely put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect us our hearts, our lives, from the dark forces at work among us. We ask for your powerful covering in the temptations we face and the battles we find ourselves struggling through even now. Thank you that because of Christ’s forgiveness and righteousness, we are made new and set free. You’ve given us fresh purpose and hope; and we know that through you, anything is possible. Help us to shine your light in a world that often feels dark. Give us the strength and boldness we need to share your truth with those who are desperately searching for hope.
As we pray through this passage of Scripture, we remember also to buckle on the belt of truth to stand strong against the enemy’s lies and deception. We put the gospel of peace on our feet, so we’re ready to take your light wherever you send us this day. We choose to walk in the peace and freedom of your Spirit and not be overcome with fear and anxious thoughts. We take up your shield of faith that will extinguish all the darts and threats hurled our way by the enemy. We believe in your power to protect us and choose to trust in you. We put on the helmet of salvation, which covers our minds and thoughts, reminding us we are children of the day, saved by the grace of Christ Jesus. We take up the sword of the Spirit, your very Word, the one offensive weapon given to us for battle, which has the power to demolish strongholds, and is alive, active, and sharper than any double-edged sword.
Thank you Lord that you are victorious over every trouble and obstacle. Thank you that you have overcome sin, death, and any evil that we may face today. And because of you, we too are overcomers. We have victory through you; we have your righteousness living in us, over us. And we can walk strong in your peace.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
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This article is part of our prayer resource meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
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