On to the battle

Inspired by the Holy Spirt, Paul alerts the Ephesians of a constant potential encounter with spiritual forces greater than they can imagine. They needed to understand what to look for and how to protect themselves, at a moment’s notice, “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,” – Eph. 3:15-18 (ESV). In addition to this armor and charge, Paul tells Timothy about an unequaled resource for this struggle, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” – 2 Tim. 3:16-17 (ESV). Military personnel are instructed to protect themselves and their comrades; Christians could accurately be considered soldiers of Christ. These soldiers need to use this arsenal to protect ourselves and others. A weapon that is not used is useless for the battle. We must intentionally choose to use God’s word for a resource and ask the Holy Spirit to lead us into battle. Various Christians will likely have different challenges and battles to fight, but the Holy Spirit will empower them as needed along their unique individual spiritual journey, if they ask Him to do so.