In the message “Dressed For Battle” we considered how we all face an enemy who seeks to engage us in battle each and every day. The attacks are deceptive but extremely methodical, as the enemy tries to pull, push, and lure us off the path of following after Christ. We then saw how our best defense against such attacks is to get properly dressed by putting on the full armor of God; “so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13).
The next natural question to ask is, “How do I put on the armor of God?” Though we may recognize the usefulness of God’s armor, it will never do us any good unless we actually know how to put it on.
Psalm 27:8
“My heart says of You, ‘Seek His face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
The armor of God is only available to those who diligently “Seek His face!”; to those who have given Him the totality of their life through a submissive faith in Jesus Christ. The armor of God is not a self-help formula to keep us protected and focused as we advance in the world’s system; it’s a covering of protection God provides as we enter into His presence and are reminded of His truth, faithfulness, and majesty.
Getting dressed for battle is therefore never a spiritual checklist or routine set of prayers. We receive His armor – in effect, He dresses us – as we humble ourselves and come before Him in prayer with a heart that desires to follow wherever He leads. Our Heavenly Father will never let us enter our daily battles without proper protection if we are diligent in seeking Him; “The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10).
How often should we seek Him? Well, how often do we wish to be naked when the enemy attacks? Getting dressed is not a one-time Salvation event nor even just a first thing in the morning event. We must put on His armor and keep it on throughout our day by developing the priority and habit of constant communion with God; “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). His protection against the enemy comes only as we enter and remain in His presence.
The attacks will surely come, but they need not be feared if we are properly dressed. Let’s learn to walk and minister in this world without ever leaving the presence of the Lord. Let’s seek Him in all we do and live each moment with the protection of His armor.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
**** Reading Plan ****
Jun 23 2 Kings 4:18-5:27; Acts 15:1-31; Psalm 141:1-10; Proverbs 17:23
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