Therefore put 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
What’s in your closet? Although no one wants to mention it, most of us have a skeleton or two hiding around in there somewhere. I’m sure there’s a few in mine, too unless they’ve been scared away by the ridiculous mess in there.
This picture of a tall sword propped against the closet wall, tucked in between dirty clothes and shoes cluttering up the floor, it’s real. The picture that is. The sword is a toy that belongs to my boys. Truth be told I probably took it away from them because they were fighting with it in the house. Since there is only one sword, the fight was most likely unfair.
I’m not even sure how long that sword has been in toy timeout in my closet, but just the other day it caught my eye. Everybody needs a sword in their closet, of course! The Holy Spirit used it to remind me to put on the full armor of God as I got dressed that morning. You know, the helmet of salvation, the shield of faith, shoes ready with the gospel of peace, the breastplate of righteousness and finally take up the sword of the spirit which is the word of God. What a sweet and gentle reminder to be in God’s Word every day.
You’re never fully dressed without a smile, but I think Annie forgot what Jesus said. In this world you will have trouble. So, put on your smile and then get out your sword. Pat Benatar was right when she sung Love is a Battlefield. Life is a battlefield, too and you would never step onto a battlefield without armor, the full armor of God.
Not only have we been clothed in His righteousness when Jesus died on the cross for us, He’s also given us everything we need for life and godliness, including armor to protect us in the battles we face in this life. Be sure that before you start your day you get fully dressed by spending time in His Word. It is the best offensive weapon we have when we run into troubles of many kinds. Use your sword, the Truth from God’s Word to slash the lies the enemy wants you to believe.
Hebrews tells us God’s Word, the Bible, is sharper than any double edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. And Isaiah tells us that His Word will not return to Him empty but will accomplish what He desires.
The battle is real, sweet friends. Don’t leave your sword in your closet, or on your bookshelf, but get it out and read it every day. Read it and you will find hope for the battles ahead because we know who the winner is. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble, but fear not, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Victory is ours in Christ Jesus.