Prepared for Battle

Last week's message was about looking to the Lord to lead you to the rock that will uplift an overwhelmed spirit. Yesterday's message helped remind me that Christians stepped onto the battlefield prepared for battle.

The background Scripture can be found in Ephesians 6:10-18.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 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. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

A few thing to take note when doing battle for the Lord:
- Know your enemy
- Know your weapons
- Pray without ceasing

Although it may seem that we are facing a losing battle, let us remember that the armor that God provides was made from God. Learning to utilize the equipment is key in being victorious over our current trials and tribulations. Finally, an attitude of unceasing prayer will continue to maintain our armor, making sure that it'll always fit like new.

There is a caveat. This armor is only for the children of God. Are you one of his or are you going to battle with armor made from your own efforts. Are you sure you want to go down fighting that way?