The War for Our Souls: Week 2

The Belt of Truth & Breastplate of Righteousness

What a delight it is to have you join me again as we launch into part 2 of our series.

Last week, we established our foundation by identifying the LORD as our strength. We can and must rely upon HIM and Him alone for He is the source and creator of all things.

Not only does the Lord fight with and for us, but He also gives us armor.

Ephesians 6 verses 11 and 12 refer to this armor, as well as reminds us who we are fighting to begin with. 

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Then, Paul talks about the first two pieces of armor in verse 14, “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, and with the breastplate of righteousness in place”.

1. Belt of Truth

It is no coincidence in a culture and time where all information is subjective and there is more confusion than clarity that we would be reminded of our roots: Truth found in God’s Word. 

It is imperative that we ground ourselves in scripture so we are able to stand firm as well as pull out the lies that try to slip into our mind and lives. Lies such as “Do what makes you happy” or “No one will notice” may sound good. Although. the reality is they often have grave consequences. What lies do you need to pull out of your life?

2. Breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS

Honestly this piece of armor is one I struggled to put on for years because of the lie that I was too dirty/messed up for God.

Yet, when we accept Christ, we are made right with Him by His blood and sacrifice on the cross. He paid the penalty we deserve for our sins. Our dirty garments are washed and as it says in Revelation, we are made clean. Pure. We don’t have to be like a pig who continues wallowing in the dirt in order to punish ourselves or earn God’s favor. He accepts us as we are. Therefore, we must put on the Breastplate of Righteousness. 

I also believe it is no coincidence that the breastplate would be designed to cover up our hearts. As it says in Proverbs 4, “all things flow from our hearts”. Therefore, we must be intentional in guarding our hearts with righteousness.

As we put on the belt of TRUTH and the breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS, the enemy may get feisty and it may feel like you are under attack even more so. Although take heart and keep on your eyes fixed on Him, dear friend. You are not alone. Not only is the Lord fighting with and for you, but we can rest in the reality that HE holds the victory. 

Please know I am praying for you, too and would love to connect by commenting below, emailing me at contact@alishascroggins.com or on social media- Facebook & Instagram, if you have any questions or prayer requests I can be lifting up to the Lord along with you. 

Much love always, Alisha