The Whole Armor of God

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. [11] Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. [12] For 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. [13] Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. [14] Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, [15] and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. [16] In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; [17] and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, [18] praying 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, (ESV)

All the pieces of armor have a metaphorical tie that is spelled out in the passage above. The Belt of Truth, in verse 14, signifying, grounding ourselves in truth -- Biblical truth, but also the reality of our calling and the impact we can have. For teachers knowing our "why" and remembering the importance of education and being honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses. Staying rooted in what you know to be right and good for students. 

Similarly, The Breastplate of Righteousness speaks to protecting our hearts with righteousness, living in a way that honors God and maintains integrity. For Teachers, acting with fairness, justice, and ethical principles in the classroom. Treating all students equitably and maintaining a clear conscience in your professional conduct. 

Next, in verse 15 Paul describes the shoes fitted with the Gospel of Peace. For Christians we are to directly share the gospel and be ready to do so at any point. Signifying a readiness to share the good news. For teachers in the classroom, it can mean fostering a peaceful and positive learning environment. Being prepared to de-escalate conflict and promote understanding.

The Shield of Faith is mentioned in verse 16. Deflecting the attacks of the enemy (discouragement, negativity, self-doubt) with faith in God's promises and your calling. For teachers believing in your ability to make a difference, trusting God's guidance even in difficult situations and not letting negativity overwhelm you.

The Helmet of Salvation that Paul writes about in verse 17 protects your mind with the assurance of salvation and a heavenly perspective. For teachers keeping your mind focused on the bigger picture, remembering that your work has eternal significance, and not getting bogged down in temporary frustrations. 

The only offensive weapon is the Sword of the Spirit. Using God's Word as a tool for truth, guidance and defense in everything we do. For a teacher we need to regularly engage with scripture for personal encouragement and wisdom that can inform our teaching. 

Finaly, though it is not an actual piece of armor, but it is everything that must go on underneath all of our armor. That is Prayer. This is the ongoing action that undergirds all the armor. It is important to emphasize daily prayer for strength, wisdom, and perseverance. 

Now, another clarifying point. Paul tells the church members in Ephesus to put on the armor. This armor is not helpful if you don't choose to put it on every day. Just like having a nice blazer that looks sharp doesn't help you look professional if it stays in your closet every day, getting damaged by moths. Wear these attitudes like armor, like teacher armor. 

• What does this passage (Ephesians 6:10-18) reveal about God's character and who He is? 

• How does the idea of spiritual armor reflect God's care and provision for us, as seen in this scripture? 

• Which piece of spiritual armor resonates with you most in your current season of teaching, and why? 

• What is one area where you feel God is calling you to put on more of this spiritual armor in your daily life and work? 

In this section I want to offer up some prompts for you to use in your personal prayer time. This does not have to be extensive. Prayer should not necessarily be something that we repeat word for word, but should be a continual conversation you have with God. I hope this helps.

• Thank God for the incredible gifts of protection and for equipping us with His spiritual armor.

• Pray for reminders to put on the spiritual armor when we feel overwhelmed and are struggling to persevere.

• Ask God for wisdom, patience, and an abundance of love for our students.

• Ask for all teachers to be blessed and strengthened as a community.