Service Uniform for the Lord's Army

Ephesians 6:10-18: As we think back to the days of our youth … the days of constantly receiving loving guidance and reminders to dress appropriately for the weather: whether rain, snow, or shine, we were informed how to prepare for the elements, as well as instructed on the purpose for each article of clothing that was to be worn.

Jesus instructed the Apostles to go to all nations and to teach, baptize and teach them to observe all things that He had commanded during the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20). Following the pattern that the Lord commanded, we can become disciples indeed (John 8:31) and as such, we should be dressed and equipped for life’s trials and tribulations (2 Peter 1:5-10), as well as being prepared to give an answer about the hope that lies within us (1 Peter 3:15), contend for the faith (Jude 1:3), and want to mutually encourage one another in the Lord (Heb. 3:13).

Jesus, when tempted by the devil in the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13), showed us both divine wisdom and an example of the outcome when the Whole Armor of God is utilized! The Lord simply stated, “It is written. . .” in response to Satan’s attempts to cause Jesus to deviate from God’s will for Him (Luke 4:4, 8, 12). While Jesus is and was the Son of God, He overcame Satan’s temptation with His humanity, not His divinity — Scripture states that the Enemy came to tempt Jesus after He had fasted and was hungry and Jesus even refused the temptation to change stones to bread to satisfy a physical response to His hunger (Luke 4:2-4) because the will of God was more important to Him.

We can all stand victorious in face of temptations according to I Cor. 10:13 because God is faithful and will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can endure. However, without an appetite and desire to know, understand and apply God’s word to our own life, we will lack the proper armor, thus lacking the understanding about what to wear during our “daily walk.” The Whole Armor of God has a purpose and provides us with both offense and defense measures, which equips us for Service to our Lord. Missing pieces of our spiritual armor should evoke strong memories of why we should have learned not to play in the snow or other inclement weather without being dressed properly for the occasion.

“Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” — James 4:7

— Damon Long