Still the battle rages

Pray: for God’s help as you look and think on his word now.

Read: Ephesians 6:10–20

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Think: here are some questions to help you meditate on this passage:

  • how does this passage help us understand the church’s present experience?
  • why is it helpful that the Bible is so honest about the reality of life for the church now?
  • how do these verses match with our own experiences?
  • how should the church stand through this present battle? Brainstorm some ideas of what it would look like for you or your Bible study group to stand firm in the battle this week.

Pray: ask God for help in this battle. Ask him to keep you realistic that battle will continue for the church. Ask him to help you and your church family persevere through it.

Today: it would be a great day to memorise a verse or two, for example Ephesians 6:12; ‘We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places’.