STRONG IN THE LORD
EPHESIANS 6:10-11 NKJV
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
To get the most out of this devotional, it would be good to read or listen to the entire chapter of Ephesians six.
Paul is wrapping up his letter to the church at Ephesus with some final words. Final words are often what the author wants emphasized. And here, the author, Paul, writing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, wants these final thoughts remembered.
Finally, be strong in the Lord. This tells us a couple of very important truths.
First, that we can be strong in the Lord. Paul does not say try to be strong. Nor does he say those of you are predisposed to strength. Or those of you who can be strong.
Paul gives this directive to the entire church. Which means being strong in the Lord is available to whosoever will. We all have the capacity to be strong in the Lord.
The second truth is an instruction. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Nothing is said about being strong in yourselves. There is undoubtedly a place to be strong as an individual. Strong in resolve. Strong in discipline and self-control. But here, Paul is encouraging the church to be strong in what Jesus has accomplished for us. Jesus defeated death, hell, and every negative spiritual force that lines up against us. To be strong in the Lord is to be established in what He has done for us and make it personal.
We get insight into what being strong looks like in verse 11. Put on the armor of God. We will not be strong in the Lord without an understanding of the armor. This armor enables us to stand against Satan's strategies.
The truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and sword of the Spirit are ours because of Jesus. No Jesus, no armor. But He made His armor available. Now our part is to take these spiritual realities and make them a part of our lives.
APPLICATION:
Books have been written on this subject. Big books. So I don't assume I can cover this topic in one small devotional. But I can get you started.
Take some time to read and think about God's armor in verses 13-18. Think about how these verses apply to you. Study. Put in some effort.
In the days we are living in, being strong in the Lord is becoming more and more a necessity.
PRAYER;
Lord show me how I can be strong in You. And thank You that I have that capacity.