It Starts Small

In today’s scripture Paul is reminding us that all all of God’s Armor is important because of the wide scope and power of spiritual evil believers face (Ephesians 6:12). God’s armor is a package, not a buffet of items from which we can select. We must have salvation and God’s Word. We need prayer and righteousness, not one or the other. All of these areas must work together to operate effectively.

When we study Paul and his teachings, we see him often putting together groups of interconnected spiritual ideas together to emphasize their importance. For example, his reference to the “fruit” of the Spirit, which mentions nine total attributes (Galatians 5:22–23). This is a literary technique, meant to imply that all listed areas are essential for the believer. This avoids the misinterpretation of picking and choosing which instructions a person wishes to pursue, while neglecting others.

Those who put on the full armor of God are promised certain benefits. The “evil day” can refer to any moment of spiritual attack. It does not refer to a future “last days” scenario. Believers are to constantly be on guard, living prepared with God’s armor. Believers who wear God’s armor can “stand firm,” a phrase used in connection with success with God in the Old Testament.

But Moses said to the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and see the Lord’s salvation that he will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again.

Exodus 14:13
(Bold for emphasis)

You do not have to fight this battle. Position yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. He is with you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Tomorrow, go out to face them, for the Lord is with you.’”

2 Chronicles 20:17
(bold for emphasis)

With flattery he will corrupt those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will be strong and take action.

Daniel 11:32
(Bold for emphasis)

The phrases in this scripture and verse 11 strongly imply defense over offense. This does not mean that we are not called on to actively engage falsehoods, rather it means that in our spiritual battles, God will win the victory. We are not called on to charge satan, but to endure his attacks until Christ wins the ultimate triumph.