“Our Daily Bread” http://odb.org
The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie http://www.harvest.org/devotional
Written by Dave Branon for “Our Daily Bread” @ http://odb.org
[Click on the Original post below, the start audio arrow, and listen to the audio version at the top, including the prayer at the end]
Original post @ https://odb.org/2024/10/01/not-optional
October 1
God’s Provided Protection
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand.
Ephesians 6:11
Today’s Scripture & Insight :
Ephesians 6:10-18
My wife and I put hundreds of miles on our bikes each year, pedaling the trails around West Michigan. To enhance the experience, we have some accessories that we’ve attached to our bikes. Sue has a frontlight, a backlight, an odometer, and a bike lock. My bike has a water bottle holder. In reality, we could ride our route successfully every day and rack up all those miles without the extras. They’re helpful but optional.
In the book of Ephesians, the apostle Paul writes about another set of accessories—but these aren’t optional. He said we must “put on” these things to be successful in living out our faith in Jesus. Our lives aren’t easy rides. We’re in a battle in which we must “stand against the devil’s schemes” (6:11), so we must be well-equipped.
Without the wisdom of Scripture, we can be swayed to accept error. Without Jesus helping us live out His “truth,” we’ll give in to lies (v. 14). Without the “gospel,” we’ll have no “peace” (v. 15). Without “faith” shielding us, we’ll succumb to doubt (v. 16). Our “salvation” and the Holy Spirit anchor us to live well for God (v. 17). This is our armor.
How vital that we travel the pathways of life protected from its real dangers. We do that when Christ equips us for the challenges along the way—when we “put on” the armor God provides.
By: Dave Branon
Reflect & Pray
What does it mean for you to “put on” God’s armor? What situations are you facing that require His armor the most?
Dear Father, thank You for reminding me in Scripture how I can stand against Satan’s attacks.
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