DAY 17
The Belt of Truth & The Breastplate of Righteousness

‘Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled round your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place.’ Ephesians 6:14

Having laid a foundation for us to understand our call to spiritual warfare, Paul now reminds us of the call to stand (for a fourth time!) He begins to look in more detail, highlighting six pieces of armour. Today we will examine the first two: the belt of truth and the breastplate of righteousness.

The Belt of Truth:
For soldiers, this likely referred to a leather apron-like covering around the waist, designed to protect the lower abdomen. Throughout Ephesians, Paul underscores the significance of living in truth, both in understanding who God is and aligning our lives with His ways. He has already stressed that lying, deception, and falsehood have no place among believers or in the Church of Jesus Christ. Instead, we are called to both speak and live out the truth.

The Breastplate of Righteousness:
In Roman armour, the breastplate covered the whole chest area, protecting many of the vital organs, including the heart. In the same way it is vital that we wear the breastplate of righteousness for our spiritual protection.

So, what is this ‘righteousness’? In the context of Ephesians as a whole, it is important to extend the focus on the gift of righteousness to us living in practical righteousness or holiness. We are encouraged to put on the new self ‘created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness’ and to live as ‘children of the light.’ Thus, wearing the breastplate of righteousness involves receiving the gift of righteousness and living out a life of righteousness.

DEVOTIONAL

by Annabel Sharman

 

QUOTABLE QUOTE

“The belt of truth is essential for the Christian life. It binds together the whole armour of God and keeps us ready for action. The breastplate of righteousness is not merely a protective covering but a reflection of our inner integrity and moral purity.”

– John Stott - theologian

 

Prayer points

    • Let’s take a moment to physically stand before the Lord, symbolising our readiness to stand firm in our faith with hearts prepared for action.
    • Pray for an increase of integrity and purity within our church family. That as we clothe ourselves with His armour, the gift of righteousness will overflow into a life that practically reflects His righteousness and holiness.
    • Pray for courage within the Church to boldly speak up for God’s truth and that the Church would consistently reflect His character, heart, and righteousness, demonstrating His truth in all it does.

DON't FORGET TO PRAY FOR YOUR VIPS!

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