We study God through His Word. Our goal is to present the truth of God in a way you can digest and apply. Today, we’ll tackle the belt of truth found in Ephesians 6:14.
Girls aren’t usually big on armor and swords and battle talk. Tell that to the apostle Paul. His words in the book of Ephesians ooze testosterone, but I love this passage because I like to think there’s a little bit of she-warrior in me! I bet you have a warrior side, too. Let’s keep that in mind as we read Paul’s words from Ephesians 6:10–17. (I know it’s a long passage, but don’t be a Bible zoomer.) Take the time to catch all that Paul is saying.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 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. 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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Every piece of a soldier’s armor is well planned. Useless equipment weighs the warrior down during battle. It is with this image in mind that Paul wrote these words. He was intentional about what he instructs us to “put on,” and we are wise to pay attention to his directions.
This isn’t just any suit of armor! It has the ability to protect us from some serious threats (the devil, cosmic powers, spiritual forces of evil). And each piece is chosen with protection in mind. The breastplate of righteousness guards our hearts. Feet willing to move for the sake of the gospel give us peace. The shield of faith is our defense against spiritual attack. Since a blow to the head can kill us fast, protecting your head “saves.” That’s what Paul is talking about when he mentions the “helmet of salvation.” The Word of God acts as our sword to help us win the battle.
And all of that armor is held in place by one piece—the belt of truth: “Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth” (Eph. 6:14).
Belts may be purely for looks in your world, but think like a soldier, girls! A belt is what holds it all together. It’s what keeps the armor in place. Perhaps most importantly, the belt holds the sheath for your sword (I believe the dude term for it is a scabbard). Imagine the she-warrior charging into battle with her armor flopping everywhere and nowhere to put a weapon. Not good!
Truth protects us. It guards us. It helps us fight big battles!
Has God’s Word ever protected you or helped you win a big battle?
Note: Much of this post was taken from my book My Name Is Erin: One Girl’s Journey To Discover Truth.
Written by Erin Davis
