The Lodestar

The Christian life is a journey marked by spiritual battles where the believers must put on the “whole armour of God” to withstand the schemes of the adversary (Eph 6:13). This armour includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

The battlefield is not physical but spiritual, with the enemy seeking to distort truth, undermine righteousness, and disrupt the peace that comes from the Gospel. Believers should “stand firm” with the belt of truth, recognising the importance of unwavering commitment to God’s Word in the face of spiritual opposition.

Righteousness is a protective breastplate guarding the believer’s heart and character. We must “put on the breastplate of righteousness,” emphasising the vital role of righteous living in deflecting enemy attacks.

The “gospel of peace” guides the believer’s steps and provides stability on the spiritual battlefield. Believers must “put on the shoes of the gospel of peace,” emphasising the foundation of peace from a reconciled relationship with God through Christ.

Faith acts as a shield, deflecting the fiery darts of doubt and fear. We must carry the “shield of faith,” highlighting the importance of trust and reliance on God’s promises in navigating the challenges of the Christian journey.

“Salvation,” depicted as a helmet, protects the believer’s mind from the assaults of doubt and despair. We need to “take the helmet of salvation,” emphasising the assurance and hope found in the redemptive work of Christ.

The “sword of the Spirit,” identified as the Word of God, is both defensive and offensive. Christ-followers must “take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” underscoring the power of Scripture in discerning truth, combating falsehood, and actively engaging in spiritual warfare.

Christian warfare extends beyond the physical realm, encompassing a spiritual battle against unseen forces. Ephesians 6 provides a blueprint for believers, urging them to equip themselves with the armour of God, standing firm in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation while wielding the powerful sword of the Spirit – the word of God.

(David Paul, an enrolled scholar at St. Paul Institute, possesses an ardent passion for devouring literature and crafting insightful articles. His literary lodestar is none other than JG Simpson. With an earnest aspiration, he endeavours to kindle the creativity of budding writers through his prose. )