A Walk through Ephesians - Pt 27

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 6:14–20 ESV).

 

The belt of truth is the first piece of spiritual armor described in our reading (cf. Ephesians 6:14-29). This ultimately protects believers to stand firm against spiritual deception. This piece of equipment was a foundational part of the Roman soldier’s dress for battle. For a Roman soldier, the military belt (or balteus) gathered up the loose inner tunic so he could move freely and avoid tripping. Spiritually, truth gathers and secures a person's life, preventing confusion from loose thinking or deceit.

 

However, it also served as the anchor for other pieces of armor. The soldier's belt held his heavy sword and was attached to his breastplate. Without the belt of truth, the rest of the spiritual armor lacks structural support. Paul says it should be "girding to your waist." This is a reference to being fully prepared and alert. Embracing God’s truth prepares a believer to respond to daily spiritual challenges.

 

We should remember that the only source of objective truth is the Scripture. Relying on the absolute truth of Scripture and the character of God rather than shifting cultural opinions is the only foundation from which we may fully equip ourselves for battle. This daily consumption of truth allows us to live a life of personal integrity and sincerity. Living an honest, transparent life free of hypocrisy, duplicity, or deception is essential to turning away the attacks of the devil.