As we round the corner for the last leg of our 21 Day Prayer and Fasting Journey, We must Suit up for Battle!
In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul is calling his men to battle. He recognizes the schemes of the enemy – and he knows our human vulnerability, but he also knows the power and potential we have to stand against the devil and win!
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
There is context here – Paul was in prison when he was writing to the Ephesians and as he is writing. He speaks the language of the people.He uses the imagery of a Roman Soldier. Everybody understood it. These soldiers were everywhere, they were a common public display. So, he uses this mental picture to help them understand what kind of protection they needed. He says put on this armor, so when the enemy attacks, you can defend yourself, so you can stand against the wiles of the devil.
What does it mean to “Stand?” It means “to hold the ground that you have already gained.”
In Texas, we have what is known as the “Stand-your-ground” law. That means that you can "stand your ground" and use force without retreating, in order to protect and defend yourself or others against a threat. It means you have the right to protect what is yours!
That’s what it means to STAND. It means hold firm, oppose, resist! It means you engage and FIGHT BACK to protect from harm! Stand Firm so you don’t lose ground!
The Ephesians had come along way. They had become Christians and had gained some ground. They were leaving the old-life behind!
Gained Ground can be defined as “distance between your old life and the New Life in Christ.” That would include broken habits, broken cycles of sin and new patterns of beliefs and behaviors.
Paul had reminded the Ephesians of it – (if you need some strength – remind yourself of who you are): You are saints – You are blessed - you are chosen (before the foundations of the world). By Grace, You are adopted and accepted by Jesus Christ HIMSELF – and are SONS of GOD. You are redeemed by the blood of Jesus & Your sins are forgiven
You have access to the same power of God that raised Christ from the dead, and you are part of the Eternal Body of Christ for an Eternal purpose. You are made for a mission!
This is who you are! Believe it. Own it. Live it. Stand Your Ground!