The Spirit’s instructions concerning the armor of God conclude with the expectation that disciples of Christ would be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” (Eph 6.18). What better way to reinforce heaven’s intentions in our minds and dedicate ourselves to the goal of serving as faithful soldiers than to ask for our Father’s help and blessing as we reflect on each piece of armor?
Blessed Father, we seek your help and blessing as we do our best to recognize the present conflict. Help us to realize the stakes. Grant us the wisdom to feel the weight of the struggle. Guide us in acknowledging our desperate need for your power and patience in our lives. Direct us as we strive to remember who we have been called to struggle against. Guard us from selfish deception that would tempt us to turn unnecessarily on other image-bearers. Lead us to clarity and focus so that you and you alone are glorified in all of our efforts.
Holy Father, we thank you for the belt of truth. We praise you as the Author of reality and the Rock of faithfulness. Send forth your light into our lives. Help us to acknowledge and joyfully respond to your direction. Use whatever you must to guide us to your holy mountain, to the pleasure of your presence. We pray for sanctification through your word and for strength as we strive to be men of truth in your service. Help us to wrap integrity around every aspect of our lives and allow your truth to bind every element of our existence together. We pray that you would help us to stay dressed for holy action, with minds prepared and hearts that are eagerly awaiting the return of your Son.
So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him.
(Genesis 1:27)