Ephesians 6:12-14 – 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, (NIV 1978)
Preparing To Do Battle
- Why is it important to know our enemy (“not against flesh and blood“) when choosing our weapons?
- What is so important about using all (“full”) the armor?
- Are there instances where it is all right to give a little ground (i.e. to not “stand your ground”) in order to make greater gains in the long run? Why (or why not)?
- What happens when we go into battle with the wrong weapons (don’t take a knife to a gunfight and don’t fight spiritual battles with worldly weapons)?
Suiting Up
All Dressed Up But Not Ready To Fight. Unless . . .
Ephesians 6:8 – 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. (NIV 1984)
- What role does praying “in the Spirit” play? Why isn’t the “full armor” complete without it?
- We have on the full armor. Our prayer life is dynamic. What happens if we are not “alert“?
Follow The Battle Plan
- God is our ultimate power source (“be strong in the Lord”).
- We need to be in full armor.
- Willingly giving ground is not an option.
- Prayer is vital to our preparedness.
- If we are not alert, all our preparations will be compromised.
- Don’t let the heat of the battle cause us to lose sight of why we are fighting in the first place.
