Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness… Ephesians 6:14 NKJV
We are able to stand by choosing to put on God’s armor. But what does that look like? Exactly how do we put on this armor we can’t see? Let’s look at each piece and see what it represents.
The first piece of armor mentioned is truth, which we are to gird our waist with. Merriam Webster dictionary states the word gird has having three definitions in the verb tense: (1) to encircle or bind, to make fast, surround (2) provide, equip (3) to prepare for action. We are called to surround our self with truth so we are equipped and prepared for action. The truth is wrapped around our waist, the center of our body providing balance.
The second piece of armor talked about in today’s verse is the breastplate of righteousness. The word breastplate has more than one meaning as well. (1) a metal plate worn as a defensive armor for the breast and (2) a vestment worn in ancient times by Jewish High Priest and set with 12 gems bearing the names of the tribes of Israel. This piece of armor has dual purpose. It is a defensive barrier protecting our heart and it is a reminder that Jesus Christ’s righteousness is our covering. We are never righteous in our self-reliance. We are only righteous through Christ’s sacrifice for us. Our righteousness comes from God alone.
So how do we put these items on? Regarding truth, we put this on by filling our minds with it and by living it out. We read God’s Word and apply its teaching. We assess our situations by its truth and respond as God would want us to. About the breastplate, we focus on Christ. Keeping our eyes fixed on Him instead of the present trouble, we are reminded we are more than conquerors in Christ. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
Have you put on truth as your sturdy belt and Christ’s righteousness as your breastplate today?
Lord, thank you for your guidance for a godly life. Thank you for your sacrifice to make us holy, pure and cleansed from all unrighteousness. Help us put on your armor so we can stand against our enemy and bring glory to you when we do. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
© Elizabeth Marks, author of ThinkOnIt Devotions and has a heart for encouraging others with God’s Word. For more devotions, bible studies and a recommended book store, visit http://www.ThinkOnItDevotions.com today.