Put on the Full Armor of God

Breastplate of Righteousness

In battle, a breastplate protects the vital organs-including the heart. Our heart is where our emotions reside, and our emotions are often used by the the enemy. The righteousness of Christ protects our heart from the enemy's attacks, sheiding us from the damage that can be done by doubt, fear, anger, sadness, bitterness. The breastplate of righteousness is what allows us to stand in the presence of God (our sins covered by the sacrifice at the cross), and to go boldly into battle with the enemy. We are protected from the accusations of our past sins, accusations that we are unworthy, or that we are somehow not 'good enough' Christians.

Righteousness comes only by our accepting Jesus as our Savior. Apart from him, we can not acheive righteousness. Though righteousness is not earned by us, we must allow it to become part of us, working in cooperation with God & His will.

"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." 1Peter 2:24

Jesus gave us authority. The devil may have power, but he has no authority over your life, unless you give up your authority (given by Christ when you accept Him as your Savior) to him.

"I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:18-20

We do not wear the breastplate of righteousness proudly for all to see; we wear it in humility to the One who offered it to us as a gift; we did not earn it. However, against the enemy we wear it boldly, confidently, courageously and with authority for all the power that is in it to protect us from Satan, is the power of God himself.

Pray this week that God would reveal His righteousness in you. Ask Him for forgiveness for unconfessed sin, which prevents you from experiencing this righteousness, leaving you vulnerable to attack by the enemy. Seek His guidance & will for your life, so that your thoughts, deeds & actions become more like those of Christ every day.

Please continue to lift up our church family in prayer for protection, for spiritual growth & for continued strength, wisdom & guidance as we seek to obey His will & spread His message to our community and our world.