A police officer got an emergency call. He arrived home just at that time. Rushing to his vehicle, he drove to the site where some anti-social elements were shooting innocent people. The miscreants, seeing the police vehicle, trained their guns on them. Unfortunately, the officer had forgotten his machine gun (AK47) when he left home in haste. He got gunshots and died in full police uniform. Paul exhorts disciples to put on the whole armor of God. (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Helmet of salvation: Only when a person is born again, could have the helmet of salvation. This helmet provides dignity, confidence, and courage.
Breastplate of righteousness: Soldiers ought to have a bullet-proof jacket to protect the chest, which covers the vital inner parts of the body including the heart. Believers are declared as righteous, by the virtue of the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Lord Jesus Christ. Saints also lead a righteous life guided by the Word of God and the Spirit of God.
Shield of Faith: A soldier skilfully positions the shield when faced with continuous attacks from the enemy. Paul writes the shield of faith not only stops the fiery darts from Satan, also extinguishes them.
Belt of Truth: For soldiers the belt was useful to hold the rope tightly and had provision to carry ammunition, food, water, and other essentials for war. The Word is the Truth, Lord Jesus is the Truth and the church is the Pillar of Truth.
Shoes: For a soldier to be marching fast stamping over thorns, thistles, bushes, rocks…shoes become vital. Paul describes that as readiness given by the gospel of peace.
Sword of the Spirit: The double-edged sword is the Word of God. (Hebrews 4:12) While the above five armours are considered as defensive weapons to protect the soldier, the sword is the offensive weapon to attack the enemy. In fact, proactive offense is the best defense.
Prayer and Perseverance: Paul adds an attitude of dependence and prayer is essential. Always being alert, perseverance until the end are essential mindset for this spiritual warfare.
Am I agile, alert, and armored?