Ephesians 6:13–15 (ESV) – 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.

As we continue looking at the armor of God, we must realize, that this imagery was not invented by Paul. He pulled imagery that was already present in the Old Testament. The breastplate of righteousness and the helmet of salvation are drawn directly from Isaiah 59:17.

We must put on the breastplate of righteousness. It does not come from ourselves. It is not our own righteous deeds that Paul is referring to. It is a piece of armor given to us from God. Is is a righteousness not our won, but freely given. If it were our own righteousness, it would never be good enough. It would be flawed and not offer us the protection and safety we need. However, because God has given us righteousness, we are assured it is enough and will help us arrive safely to our destination.

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