There is no doubt in the mind of the child of God about his being strong. Time and time again, the Christian is commanded to be strong (Eph. 6:10; 2 Tim. 2:1; 1 Cor. 16:13). This is not an optional thing. It is something required.
But why is it so important to be strong? Are there sufficient reasons given? Let Paul tell us. Listen as he says, “that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Eph. 6:11). Again, “that ye may be able to stand in the evil day” (Eph. 6:13). If there were no such enemy as the Devil, nor the days of evil did not abound, we would not have to be strong. But does he tell us how to be strong? Are provisions made to help us? As you read the writings of Paul, you will find a number of things to help us be strong.
I. WITH THE TRUTH WE ARE GUIDED
That is what is meant when he speaks of “having the loins girt about with truth”. That means a person’s life will be guided in every department by the truth. Such a person will live a life of righteousness (Titus 2:11-12). That person will do what is right in every circumstance of life. Wasn’t this true of Daniel in far off Babylon (Dan. 4:7-8)? His loins were enclosed with the truth.
II. THERE WILL BE THE PROTECTION OF FAITH
One will be protected from the darts of the Devil by the shield of faith. This was surely the case with the early disciples. They faced the storms and struggles of persecution. Take a look at the situation in Acts 4. They had been threatened and told not to speak or teach any more in the name of Jesus. Such darts are calculated to discourage and defeat the people of God. But what did they do? Did they give in or were they strong? You will remember they would meet together and pray. They kept their faith (Acts 4:32).
III. THERE WILL BE CONFIDENCE IN THE WORD OF GOD
As one goes to battle, he will have in his hand and heart the Word of God. But if a man does not have the confidence he should in the Word, he is apt to seek a substitute. That will weaken such a person, and Paul knew that. He would not say take “the sword of the Spirit” if he did not have total and complete confidence therein. If we are going to be strong as we should this is an absolute must. There is no reason for us to lose the battles. We can be strong.
-Winfred Clark
0 Comments