MONDAY

SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 6:10-20

“Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war”? Really? The world we live in, from the brutal tribal cultures of the Ancient Near East to the relentless, often equally brutal empire-building of later world powers, has a history marked, perhaps stained, by an incessant fascination with warfare as a means to whatever end was in vogue at the time. You would think we could do better by now!

But troubling as warfare is as a means to any end, and as unsettling as it is, or should be, for Scripture to use this kind of imagery, the reality is that we live in a world still marred by sin and a very real conflict between good and evil. And while the teaching of Jesus makes it clear that God’s Kingdom is never established by force or armed military conflict, it remains true that, as followers of Jesus, we find ourselves caught in the midst of a very real battle.

Even so, though the imagery of armed conflict persists in the New Testament, the better, and even inspiring, news is that what the battle is really about, and how it is engaged, is described in a very different way. It is a way that reflects the character of God, and invites our participation in a way that honors the teachings of Jesus.

So, “marching as to war”? Perhaps, in one respect. But it is not at all like the kind of warfare our world has become accustomed to. Our Scripture passage for today describes what it means to be outfitted for battle. As you take time to read and reflect on it, consider the following:

• What does this passage reveal about the nature of the battle we are engaged in, especially in its emphasis on standing rather than attacking?

• As you consider the armor described, how do you see these qualities reflected in the life and ministry of Jesus?

• In this battle, God’s people do not adopt the enemy’s methods but reflect God’s character instead. What do you think about that approach?

• How well defended do you feel? Which pieces of armor feel strong in your life right now, and which need attention?

• In what ways can you take courage from knowing that, even though conflicts continue, the decisive victory has already been secured?

Take a few moments to share with God in prayer what you are hearing in this imagery that describes how we can feel safe and secure in our relationship with Jesus.