Introduction
Ephesians 6:10–24: Paul offers encouragement to help the Ephesians remain strong against what he calls “wicked spiritual forces” (verse 12). Using the metaphor of armor worn by Roman soldiers, he describes the spiritual armor that God gives to guard us against evil, and he exhorts them to pray continually for one another. Today’s reading concludes with Paul’s final greetings and benediction.
Today’s Key Verse: Ephesians 6:18b
Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason, keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God’s people.
Reading
10 Finally, build up your strength in union with the Lord and by means of his mighty power. 11 Put on all the armor that God gives you, so that you will be able to stand up against the Devil’s evil tricks. 12 For we are not fighting against human beings but against the wicked spiritual forces in the heavenly world, the rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers of this dark age. 13 So put on God’s armor now! Then when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist the enemy’s attacks; and after fighting to the end, you will still hold your ground.
14 So stand ready, with truth as a belt tight around your waist, with righteousness as your breastplate, 15 and as your shoes the readiness to announce the Good News of peace. 16 At all times carry faith as a shield; for with it you will be able to put out all the burning arrows shot by the Evil One. 17 And accept salvation as a helmet, and the word of God as the sword which the Spirit gives you. 18 Do all this in prayer, asking for God’s help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God’s people. 19 And pray also for me, that God will give me a message when I am ready to speak, so that I may speak boldly and make known the gospel’s secret. 20 For the sake of this gospel I am an ambassador, though now I am in prison. Pray that I may be bold in speaking about the gospel as I should.
21 Tychicus, our dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord’s work, will give you all the news about me, so that you may know how I am getting along. 22 That is why I am sending him to you—to tell you how all of us are getting along and to encourage you.
23 May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give to all Christians peace and love with faith. 24 May God’s grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying love.
Reflect
Reread verses 14–17. How is God’s armor described? How can such spiritual armor protect you? What is the goal of wearing this armor (verse 13)? What does putting on God’s spiritual armor mean to you?
Pray
Sovereign God, thank you for the gift of your protection. Empower me with the resources I need to stand against the devil’s evil tricks and wicked spiritual forces. Cover me with your righteousness. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Luke 3:1–20: John the Baptist preaches in the desert.
