Ephesians 6 -- Armor Check

As I read again through the section on spiritual armor, a question formed in my mind:  Why, with all the armor, do we still find ourselves wounded by fiery darts Satan throws at us which cause us to sin?  My commentary said, “A man of integrity, with a clear conscience, can face the enemy without fear.”  If, as we read this, a twinge of regret occurs, then I suppose we’re missing our belt that day.  It continued, “The life we live either fortifies us against Satan’s attacks or makes it easier for him to defeat us.”  By the way we choose to live, we may be giving aid and comfort to our enemy.

 

So what are Satan’s fiery darts?  “Lies, blasphemous thoughts, hateful thoughts about others, doubts, and burning desires for sin.  If we do not by faith quench these darts, they will light a fire within and we will disobey God.”

 

Finally, it mentioned the energy that propels the soldier forward – prayer.  The example it cited was Moses praying while Joshua fought.  It took both to defeat Amalek.  What kind of prayer?  Always being in communion with God – never out of His presence.  Also not just asking God for what we feel we need, but also praising Him for who He is and asking His help for others. 

 

Praying “in the Spirit” doesn’t mean simply adding a phrase to the end of our prayers.  My commentary noted the small golden altar standing before the veil in the Tabernacle.  The incense, mixed according to God’s plan, couldn’t be counterfeited by man.  The fire on the altar is a picture of the Holy Spirit, for it is He who takes our prayers and ignites them in the will of God.”

 

Father, remind me to check all of my armor, to be sure I’ve got it all on for the battle.  Teach me to pray better, staying in close communion with You every waking moment.  And thank You that I have Your Holy Spirit to ignite my prayers and deliver them straight to You.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

 

 

Gary Ford