The Whole Armor of Godਨਮੂਨਾ

The Sword of the Spirit

The Roman warrior’s short sword was called a gladius. It was used for up close and personal, hand-to-hand, face-to-face combat on the frontline of battle. This sword excels where agility, speed, and precision thrusts are critical, such as during sieges, ship battles, or fighting in dense terrain. Many believe that this Roman sword was double-edged, allowing for versatility in combat, because it could be used for cutting and thrusting.

The Christian’s sword is the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. The author of Hebrews describes it powerfully: "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Heb. 4:12 ESV).

Some aspects of spiritual battle are intensely personal. We can feel singled out by the enemy, as if the attack is custom-designed for us. It is. Satan knows our weaknesses. He cannot read our minds, but he can read our actions, decisions, words, and inactions. He will aim for the jugular.

Why would our loving God allow this?

We want to wield the Word of God by faith, empowered by the Spirit, with precision, in a timely manner, and with accuracy; it is the most powerful weapon against evil. Nimbleness, dexterity, quickness, and fluid movement come with wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and practice! Agility in sword fighting is a combination of these qualities.

Jesus used the Word of God to stand firm against Satan. What can we do to be prepared to do the same?

• Read the Bible and pray daily.
• Study the Word thoroughly to ensure we do not fall prey to the enemy's deception.
• Commit God’s Word to memory.

The more we know and understand and believe the Word of God, the more proficient and effective we will be in standing against the enemy of our souls. Consider memorizing each piece of armor, keeping in mind the corresponding spiritual truth. Take up your armor and put it on by quietly reciting each piece of armor to the tune of the children’s song, Head, Shoulders, Knees, & Toes.

Onward and upward!

Congratulations! You have completed The Whole Armor of God. If you would like to continue this journey of spiritual growth, please visit our store for the full-length discipleship study, Stand Firm in Christ.