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Verse:Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. —Ephesians 6:13, NIV
The Andrea Gail, a successful commercial swordfishing boat, left port from Massachusetts looking for a good catch. The vessel sank after being caught in the perfect storm, killing its crew of six. This northeaster in 1991 caused damage along the North American coastline from Nova Scotia to Puerto Rico. Following Jesus doesn’t mean we will not face any storms. The disciples ran directly into a storm while obeying Jesus.
Yet God has provided us with the perfect gear to withstand the storm. The first gear needed to withstand a storm is a jacket that keeps you warm.
In our spiritual gear, this is like the shield of faith, which is needed to daily endure Satan’s ungodly attacks on us. When headed out to sea, we also need a raincoat with a hood to cover our heads and faces from the rain.
This is like the helmet of salvation, which protects us from thinking bad things, listening to bad things, saying bad things, and watching bad things.
A personal flotation device is crucial to stay afloat.
The breastplate of righteousness enables us to stay afloat and live a Christlike life through storms, knowing God overcame this world for you and me and covers us with His righteousness. Water shoes prevent us from slipping off the boat and protect our feet in waters filled with rocks and coral.
When our feet are covered with the gospel of peace, we are ready to share the gospel with anyone. Jesus told His disciples to preach the good news to everyone, making disciples of all nations. A harness tied around the waist that latches on to the boat prevents people from falling out of the boat. The belt of truth will keep us connected to God as we follow Jesus’ example of prayer and studying the Bible, preventing us from falling out of connection with God. Finally, a knife is needed to defend those at sea against deadly creatures swimming in ocean waters, ready to attack.
The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God in our hearts and minds, preparing us to defend ourselves against Satan’s lies while facing temptations.
Suhana Chikatla