Part six: Sword Fight
We often see swords breaking in movies, which is usually symbolic of the incredible strength of the character being portrayed. In reality it takes unusual movement, consistent pressure and force to actually break a sword. If a sword were to break, it was just as much the fault of the smith as it was the wielder. Consider this. If the Bible were no longer applicable, wouldn’t we blame God? If He sent us out with shoddy equipment, we would believe He was responsible for our failure. On the flip side, if we step into battle without the sword we’ve been given, we are only hurting ourselves.
We wouldn’t dream of going into battle without a weapon. We can use the Bible when we are feeling tempted, when struggling with anxiety/depression/fear, sharing truth when someone challenges it. Pray it, proclaim it, speak it aloud, memorize it, post it in your home.
P A U S E
The Sword of the Spirit is our most effective defense against lies. The Bible was handcrafted by about forty men over the course of more than 3,000 years. In 2 Timothy 3:16, 17, Paul says “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Regardless of how realistic it may sound to you, the truths presented then still apply today.
What are some ways you can make Scripture a more regular part of your day? Memorize verses, write them cards, use them as wallpaper on your phone? What are some ways this might help you in your daily living?
P R A Y
Ask God to speak to you through the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 says “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” This verse tells me that God wants the words in His book to move in our lives.
P R O C L A I M
Matthew 7:7,8 says “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” This verse tells me God wants to respond to our needs.
The focal point of our fear will determine the course of our path. Fear is inevitable and we are free to decide what we do with it. Do we look for safety and miss out on participating in our lives? Or do we turn toward God and His Truth to live more authentically? As someone that is easily frightened by most things, I can tell you that there is freedom in the latter.
Our final example of wearing the armor of God is Jesus. You didn't think we'd get out of this without Him, did you? He responded to every challenge the enemy threw His way by quoting Scripture and God's Truth. Isn't that amazing? Our greatest enemy can be knocked down by the Truth. BOOM. I love it. Not only can we look to Him for an example of life on earth, but we have the added bonus of His Spirit dwelling in us along the way. Stand strong in what you know to be true today!