Ephesians 6:10-15

Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-15
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.
12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the power of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
13 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.
14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,
15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

Observations:
Verse 10 is my verse today! I'm at work all alone and I'm gonna be strong in the Lord! He's gonna get me through it :) I really love that verse 12 defines our struggle. We aren't struggling against our own flesh and blood, or other people. We are struggling against the devil! He's the enemy! Not our fellow sinners, and not our body. It makes it easier to be loving toward others when we realize people aren't our enemy. It's the dark forces that influence them. There's a lot of darkness, and we do need to be strong and empowered people of light.

Application:

We are called to be ready and armed to stand. The way to do so is to know the TRUTH that's in the Word, to know that Christ not only died for us, but also LIVED for us, so CHRIST'S righteousness is ours! Also we need to be sprinting peace-makers: patient servants, quick to forgive, slow to anger, careful with our words, selfless with our actions, submitting to others in love. That's a strong soldier for Christ.

Prayer:
Father, help us to be strong today. Strengthen us with Your power, so we can be brave against everything the devil throws our way.  We praise You for Your power and grace, that You forgive us and equip us to stand for You. Grow us in truth, encourage our walks, and help us to be ready to make peace. In Christ's name I pray, amen.