The Painted New TestamentSample

Full Armor by [ Max Davis ](www.MaxDavisBooks.com) As I ponder this radiant painting by Ron Dicianni I’m reminded that as Christ-followers we are engaged in a very real spiritual war against a very ruthless enemy. The problem is, so often Satan has his way with us because we live as if he doesn’t exist. Yet, if we are going to live effective lives for God, we must understand the reality of our enemy and take full advantage of the spiritual weapons at our disposal. Jesus never questioned the reality of the demonic and even proclaimed Satan as “the ruler of this world” (John 14:30). On another occasion, Jesus said, “…Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve” (Matt. 4:10). If Jesus is the Son of God, God incarnate, then we must embrace all of what He said. Jesus referred to Satan twenty-five times and had personal encounters with him. One fourth of Jesus’ actions, parables, and miracles had to do with demons. Jesus clearly thought that demons and Satan were real. The apostle Paul followed in Jesus’ steps when he said, “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” (Ephesians 6:12 NIV). On another occasion, Paul said, “... [beware] lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Cor. 2:11). It’s hard to understand Satan’s devices if we don’t believe he exists! It’s important to point out, however, that we as believers have nothing to fear. God’s Spirit resides in us and Satan is already defeated! Nor are we to be overly demon conscious. Our job as Christ-followers is to be alert and sober-minded, to simply do what God’s Word tells us to do. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith…” (1 Peter 5:8-9). You resist him by being “. . . 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.” Put on the full armor of God today and stand in His power!