Stand

 “Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ”

Ephesians 6:11 ESV


Traditionally, I've thought of the armour of God as an individualistic thing. Yet of course, the Roman soldier didn't fight in isolation. He was part of a band of brothers.

A Roman 'tortoiseshell' of shields could withstand barbarian hordes. We don't win spiritual warfare in isolation, but in community. A solitary Roman soldier could easily be destroyed by an enemy army. 

When we trust in Jesus, we become part of his spiritual army. He's gone before us, through death into resurrection and ascension. Nothing can stand in our way.

God has equipped us with everything we need for spiritual warfare. We can stand strong in him. We are to trust in him, not in our own devices.

'Lord God Almighty, please help us to take up your armour and to use it. May we fight together, and not isolated. In Christ's name we ask this, amen'.

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