The Lighthouse Devotional
Author: Alfred Simpson
SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Eph 6:11 NIV).
PERSONAL REFLECTION
As I reflect on this verse, four words immediately catch my attention. “Put on” calls to mind the idea of donning protective clothing, e.g., hazmat suits, especially in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. “Full” alludes to comprehensive, entire, and complete so that nothing is lacking or omitted. “Armor” suggests the metal covering soldiers wear during battle to protect their bodies. Indeed, this combination of words reminds me of the multiple layers of protective materials that encase the underground cables of power-generating companies, shielding them from the elements and damage.
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Paul’s command to “put on the full armor of God” is not for show. He provides an important reason why we must do so— “that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Jesus says that our common adversary, the devil, comes like a thief “only to steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10). His schemes are comparable to hazardous substances, such as chemical, biological, and radioactive materials. Hence, every Christian, like frontline personnel, must put on their hazmat suits of God’s whole armor because of the mortal dangers posed by the devil’s schemes. Not a single part of our bodies must be left exposed.
I recall a nurse practitioner who says she has no choice but to be fully armored whenever she treats patients with diseases of a particular nature. Her hazmat suit makes her hot; it is uncomfortable, and she removes it only after much effort. Nevertheless, she endures the discomfort to get the best results for herself and her patients. Likewise, Christians must always be fully clothed with God’s armor, leaving no area of the body vulnerable to the devil’s schemes. Like any dangerous virus that is invisible but deadly, we wrestle against unseen powers and evil forces. Only God’s complete armor enables us to stand firm in such circumstances.
EXHORTATION
Perhaps you have tried in vain to overcome life’s temptations and problems. Maybe you are frustrated, disillusioned, and ready to quit. Remember, however, that just as we have armored ourselves against natural viruses—masking, social distancing, and sanitizing—we must also correctly outfit ourselves against the devil’s schemes, against which we can neither retreat nor surrender. Therefore, let us put on God’s whole armor so that we can stand our ground when the evil day comes (6:13).
PRAYER
Eternal God, in the precious name of Jesus Christ, we look to You on behalf of everyone who may hear or read these words. Grant Your grace and favor to their lives. Give them the wisdom, understanding, and the will to apply Your Word to their hearts and live thereby. Let Your will be done in their lives as they put on Your whole armor and stand against the devil’s schemes. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.