The Armor of God (pt. 2)

 

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 firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:13-20 ESV).

 

Today we will look at the first piece of the “armor of God”: the belt of truth (v. 14). It almost seems odd that Paul would use this piece of the Roman soldier’s armor first. However, the belt plays a much more important role than we may think. The belt is used by the Roman soldiers to secure and carry their weapon. It is the first essential piece of equipment for them to put on, without a belt, they would be defenseless. We know this to be true in our experience as well. Law enforcement officers today have their utility belts with all their equipment attached and easily within their reach.

 

However, Paul associates the belt of a soldier with “truth.” For Christians, the truth is found in the Scripture and it serves as our foundation for belief and practice. Paul reminds Timothy that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). If our beliefs are not rooted in God’s Word, we cannot expect to fight successfully. I often explain my use of the Scripture to new clients because of my belief that it is the repository of truth; and, it is that truth that will set you free.

 

We should also note that just as a belt is worn close to the body, we should hold God’s truth close to us and allow it to surround us. When we remain in His Word, we can distinguish what is true from what is untrue. This becomes the root of wisdom. So,

with that being said, I encourage you to apply the concept of the belt of truth to your life and hold onto God’s truth. In the end, by remaining in His Word, you will be equipped for spiritual battles that may come your way. Truth should surround us like a belt. Knowing God’s truth is the weapon against Satan’s lies and deception.