May 15th

Warrior Dad

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil... 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. Stand therefore... Ephesians 6:11,13-14

What do you stand for?

You can take this two ways. Either think of it like, I just won't stand for this!you won't tolerate it. Or, think of it this way, I'll take my stand on this issue. I want my life to stand for the things I believe in.

Where do you stand? What are the issues where you refuse to be moved? What wrongs or injustices will you never tolerate?

Paul gives us a good list to start with, telling us four times in Ephesians 6:10-17 that we need to take a stand. Here is what made Paul's list:

First, truth. Put truth around your waist like a belt. Like the light of day that chases away the creatures of night, truth is the light that overcomes the lies of darkness. Stand on the truth of what Jesus has done for you.

Second, righteousness. Did you ever realize that righteousness is not just a moral way to live your life? It is actually a protection for your heart! And while you need to follow in the righteous example of Jesus in your actions, it is His righteousness that covers you and not your own.

Third, the gospel of peace. Stand for the reality of God's peace-His shalom that is far more than just lack of conflict. God's peace restores, reconciles, and makes new. Whatever was lost is found, whatever was broken is fixed, because of the good news of God's peace.

Fourth, your faith. This goes far beyond your faith in Jesus as your Savior, though that is the heart of it. That faith is the faith that settles our eternity, but what are you doing day in and day out that requires faith?

Fifth, salvation. Stand firm on the reality that Jesus has saved you. Never let any doubts creep in concerning all that Jesus has done for you.

Sixth, the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. What has God said? Stand on the Word of God and do not be shaken. Let it establish your life as you follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.

If we will stand on these things, then our lives will be blessed. These are our keys for victory, the areas of battle on which we must stand.

Prayer Father God,

Thank You for giving me strategies for a victorious life! This armor is Your armor, so please clothe me in it. Never let me lack even one piece as I live for Your glory!

Amen