WHY it matters//
The Bible tells us to be aware of the strategies that the devil uses to steal, kill and destroy in the lives of Christians. We are not only instructed to be aware, but also to be prepared for the Spiritual warfare that will come. If we are ignorant or unprepared we are in danger of losing the battle. God has given us everything we need to win, but we must choose to engage and use the strategies that he teaches us through his Word. It’s very important that we understand that every natural thing has a spiritual source or catalyst. We have the power of the Holy Spirit to help us discern the things that we can’t always plainly see.
WHAT it's talking about//
Paul writes this letter to the church in Ephesus around 60 AD while he is in prison. At this time in history Ephesus was a very spiritual city and was known as a center of sorcery and witchcraft. The Ephesian church was being overwhelmed by spiritual warfare and didn’t feel equipped to win. The believers are trying to understand the place of Jesus in the hierarchy of the gods and spirits that are worshipped around them. Paul is reminding them that their battle is never against people, but is always against what is working behind the scenes. He is equipping the believers to know that Jesus is supreme, above all other spiritual forces, and that there is a strategy in God to defeat the devil and his angels.
Ephesians 6:10-17 NLT
10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.
12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.
14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.
15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.
16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.
17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.