Walk the Walk
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Ephesians 6:10
As the dearly loved children of God, we are urged to walk the walk of God's children. But the question always arises: How can we find the power to live the life described in Ephesians? Be strong in the Lord. To do this you have to put on the entire armor God has provided for the battle.
God has provided the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the sandals of the gospel of peace. The belt of truth is the large waist belt that protected the abdomen from an upward thrust of the sword. The belt that protects us is the truth as revealed in Jesus Christ and his word. Next comes the breastplate of righteousness. This is Jesus’ perfect righteousness which is ours through faith. The third items of military gear were the sandals which protected the feet and enabled the soldier to make the long marches. We are given the gospel of peace.
Then we have the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. The shield was the long object that protected the soldier from the spears and javelins thrown by the enemy. Faith is our shield against the attacks of the devil. The helmet protected the head from serious injury. Our helmet is inscribed with the word "salvation." God has saved us from sin and death. This salvation provided without cost protects the Christian.
Finally, we come to the one offensive weapon. All the other weapons are defensive in nature. We have been equipped with the sword of the Spirit. The sword of the Spirit which we wield in this spiritual battle is the word of God. It is a powerful weapon. The word of God is given to us by the Holy Spirit. It is the best offensive weapon that we have. In this struggle to the death, be sure that you are armed with the word of God.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and his mighty power.
Be strong in the Lord in armor of light!
With helmet and sword, with shield for the fight;
On prayer be dependent, belted and shod,
In breastplate resplendent – the armor of God.
Worship Supplement 768:1