NT Fire Starters – Day 273: Ephesians 6:10-24

READ: Ephesians 6:10-24

THINK: Many teens are into gaming, and among the most popular games are those with combat or war themes. Most people who get into these computer simulations would have no desire to engage in real-life warfare. But the games allow them to do “battle” with no “real” consequences. But whether we recognize the fact or not, we all are in a very real battle against a powerful enemy. It is the ultimate good verses evil. In this war, it’s not points that are at stake; but people’s eternal souls. By choosing to follow Christ, you are already destined for victory, but you must still engage in battle. To do so, God has given you an array of vital spiritual armor that is more than ample to withstand the devil’s attacks. And you have God’s Word, which will always accomplish its purposes and prevail against the enemy. But you must choose to “put on the full armor of God” (v. 13).

RESPOND: Why is it absolutely imperative to rely on the Lord’s strength and “mighty power”? What are some of “the devil’s schemes” that you must be aware of and prepared to stand against? (See 6:11 note.) How would you describe the nature of a Christian’s spiritual warfare, and what are some of the issues you must battle? (See 6:11 note, sub point 2.) What hope can you have in the midst of spiritual battle? (See 6:11 note, sub points 1 & 4.) What must you keep in mind about who your real enemy is and what his intentions are? (See 6:12 note.) Why must you “put on the full armor of God”? (See 6:13 note.) What specific functions do the various pieces of armor serve? What does it mean that “the shield of faith” can extinguish “the flaming arrows of the evil one” (v. 17)? Most pieces of spiritual armor provide specific defenses against evil. What is the primary offensive weapon God provides for us? (See 6:17 note.) What are some things we must do in order to use this weapon effectively? What kind of prayer must we engage in to do effective spiritual battle? (See 6:18 note.) In what way is prayer not just a spiritual weapon, but part of the actual battle? What can happen if we fail to pray? Why is it so imperative to “be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints” (v. 18)? How can prayer help people declare Jesus’ message fearlessly (v. 19-20)?

PRAY: Ask God to help you rely on His strength and mighty power as you engage in spiritual warfare. Pray that you remain alert to the devil’s schemes and that you take full advantage of the spiritual armor made available to you. Ask God to help you effectively employ faith and His Word to gain victory over your spiritual enemy.

ACT: Whenever you encounter challenges or difficulties today, take time to pray for God’s help and guidance. Also, try to recall something from God’s Word that applies to each situation and let it inspire your faith and action.