We are nearing the end of our tour through the parts of the spiritual armor that Paul laid out in Ephesians 6:10-18. Did you notice that everything we have discussed so far is a defensive piece of the armor? The belt, breastplate, helmet, shoes, and shield are all protective. God is our defender!
But today’s piece of armor is not defensive. The sword of the Spirit is the one offensive piece of armor that Paul discusses.
Because we know that Paul, a Roman citizen, was well aware of what soldiers in his day would be using, it’s worth taking a minute to discuss the physical weapon referred to in this passage, to help us better understand the spiritual metaphor Paul is making.
The Greek word Paul uses is μάχαιραν (machaira), and would be more accurately translated as “dagger”. This was a small, short weapon, intended for a fast jabbing action and retreat – not extended sword-fighting.
Keeping this in mind, as we look at Ephesians 6:17b, “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God,” we can see clearly that God intends any actual facing off with the enemy to be short, and to consist simply of His word.
Jesus set the example for us when He was tempted in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11). Three times Satan taunted and tempted Him, and three times Jesus responded with Scripture (all from Deuteronomy). No long conversation, no attempt to convince. He simply, and powerfully, spoke Scripture (jab!).
When I am deep in a battle, it doesn’t make sense to me that the solution could be as simple as God’s Word, but my feelings don’t get a say in reality – the truth is, God’s Word is powerful.
When I wrestle with the enemy like a war-weary swordsman, I am making a grave mistake. God is the victor; I am merely a foot soldier who has been issued protective gear and a small but effective dagger – His Scriptures. When I follow my marching orders, He provides the results, and I rest. Isn’t that amazing?
We really don’t want to be fumbling around for our dagger in the moment of need, though, do we? This is one reason why memorizing Scripture is so beneficial.
I have made it a point to memorize Scriptures related to specific areas of struggle in my life. Fear has always been a stumbling block for me, and long ago I memorized passages about fear so that when I feel anxiety rising, I can speak truth (jab!). When I get tired of serving, I can speak verses about not growing weary (jab!). When I am filled with self-doubt, I can speak verses about who I am in Christ (jab!).
God’s Word has a power that is inexplicable. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that…
“the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
Knowing that His Word not only blesses and refines is, but also protects us, is comforting, and inspiring! What verses do you need to memorize so that you are ready to “jab” when the battle comes?
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