By Nancy Virden (c)2021

God’s armor is not intended as a shell to crawl inside. Neither is his shelter a place to isolate
from the world. Fear is fed by our focus. God gives us options on where to place our sight in the middle of what stirs our fear.

We continue to use the biblical symbolism of an ancient Roman soldier’s armor (see part one) .

3. Feet Fitted with Readiness

“…and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace” (Ephesians 6: 15) Spikes covered the bottom of Roman soldiers’ footwear for climbing over rough terrain and for digging into the earth, keeping them steadfast in hand-to-hand combat.

How are we to be ready? The gospel of peace is the good news of Jesus the Messiah. While we are alive, there is work to finish. Readiness to carry this gospel to others comes first by knowing the gospel ourselves, receiving it, and living in the peace that it gives us. This readiness is part of our victory over fear.

4. Shield of Faith

“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16). A Roman soldier carried a large, oblong, four-cornered shield that covered much of his body. Sometimes these shields were wetted down to help extinguish flaming arrows shot by the enemies.

What is faith? It is more than believing in God. Even demons believe in God and shudder (James 2:18-20). Faith is pure trust and confidence that God means what he says and obedience to him. That means going into battle. Jesus said faith is like a tiny mustard seed which becomes the largest tree in the garden (Matthew 13:31-32; Luke 17: 5-6) It grows when nurtured. Pastors, teachers, the Holy Spirit, and personal Bible study and prayer will water and feed our seed of faith. Exercising faith is our responsibility that in time, surpasses all fear.

The next few pieces of armor will be discussed this week. Comments always welcome.

Today’s Helpful Word

1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.

NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

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