SWORD OF THE SPIRIT

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT

The last piece of the armor that Paul tells us to “take up” is the only weapon of OFFENSE.

When we put on the belt, the breastplate, the shoes, the shield, and the helmet they were all to defend ourselves against the attacks of the enemy.

A sword is a perfect example for the Word as it gives us an offense.

For example, Jesus used God’s Word as an offensive weapon in Matthew 4 when Satan tried to test Him in the wilderness.

Wisdom from God and the knowledge we gain when we spend time in His Word and in prayer is the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT.

As we read, study, and hide His Word in our hearts, it is then we can use it to defeat Satan, use it to witness for God and rely on it to turn us from sin.

THE POWER OF GOD’S WORD

To understand the connection between the sword and the Word of God, it is first important to understand the power of God’s Word.

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.”

When a sword is sharpened it can pierce though about anything.

We must sharpen our mind on the things of God so we can be prepared and ready to stand firm, to stand boldly for Christ.

Through God’s Word, we can distinguish between right and wrong. As a result, we can strive to live in a way that is free from sin. His Word is the ultimate truth, and we can find confidence in knowing it is our greatest weapon.

OUR SWORD CANNOT BE DULL

When we are ready to defend our stand with Christ it can’t be with a dull sword.

The sword must be sharpened often. Our confidence in what the Word says, and means is so important.

We must be ready when someone twists God’s Words and tries to defend their actions when it is sin. We can love all people, but we don’t love sin. We can’t contribute to it or condone it.

When we say we love all people, that should not be just lip service, but we should be the hands and feet of Jesus. Show others who may be lost how Jesus’s love is in us.

CAN OTHERS SEE YOUR PASSION FOR CHRIST?

Our vigilance is an expression of our faith. It is also a big part of our testimony. Someone should not have to ask if we are a Christian. They should be able to SEE our passion for Christ in everything we do!

In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he encourages them to stand strong.

Colossians 4:2-6

2 Be devoted to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time pray for us too, that God may open a door for the message so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may make it known as I should. 5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunities. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer everyone.

Through God’s Word, we can distinguish between right and wrong. As a result, we can strive to live in a way that is free from sin. His Word is the ultimate truth, and we can find confidence in knowing it is our greatest weapon.

If we are lacking in knowledge of God’s Word, we will struggle to fight against the enemy.

However, those who seek God’s Word and abide by it will be blessed.

John 5:24 says, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

HOW CAN WE USE THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT IN OUR LIVES?

So, how can we use the sword of the spirit in our lives? We are not meant to keep the knowledge we gain from God’s Word to ourselves. When we are asked to defend what we believe, we can use God’s Word to point back to Him.

Sometimes, it is not easy to take up our swords and fight against the enemy.

However, we are not called to do this by our own strength. When facing trials, we can find peace in knowing that God is on our side.

Romans 8:31 says, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

I encourage you to take up the sword of the spirit in your daily life. Remember that God’s Word is the ultimate truth and that we can stand on His promises. With God on our side, we are unstoppable.

Join me in prayer – Equip me Father, with the sword of the Spirit today. May I be ready and willing to stand boldly for You. In Jesus Name. Amen