Reading the Word

Ephesians 6:10–20 (ESV)

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Life can be hard. Many difficult things can come our way at almost any time. When those tough times come, it is likely we will hear words like “Hang in there” or “Be strong.” But how do we do that? How do we remain strong when the world around us is falling apart and we have no control over it? Someone may tell us to “Be Strong”, but that is not enough. If we are honest, we know we are very weak and hopeless.

Notice that this passage tells Christians to “Be strong”as well. However, it does not tell us to be strong in ourselves. We are to be strong in the Lord. We are weak, but he is not. The world may not be in our control, but God is in complete control. We can face our circumstances in his strength. We can go into the world each day prepared for battle because the Lord is with us and has given us the armor we need to protect us from all we will face as long as we stand strong in the Lord.

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