So much wisdom comes from our Christian heritage. Paul wrote so much encouragement that now comprises a large section of the New Testament. Specifically, in Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul provides us with the best weapons to combat spiritual warfare. And now more than ever, we as a nation need to take practical steps to sharpening for battle.

Before I continue, we must always remember that our fights are not to focus on attacking the other political side or any group of people. Our fights are against satan, his demons, and his hold on this society. When we recognize the enemy’s identity and tactics, we have the ability to destroy his efforts towards hurting us and others.

So, how can we follow Paul’s instructions to: “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power?” as is stated in Ephesians 6:10 (NLT)? The armor that Paul outlines will help us fight the devil and “after the battle you will still be standing firm” (Ephesians 6:13).

• The belt of truth
• The body armor of God’s righteousness
• The shoes of peacemaking
• The shield of faith
• The helmet of salvation
• The sword of the Spirit (a.k.a. the Word of God)
• Prayer, at all times, in every season, and with each opportunity
• Remaining alert to be praying for believers all over the world

I am concerned about our current dilemmas and battles, but I also know that these battles are the Lord’s, and that God has been, is, and will continue to be faithful. As God is faithful, He is calling us to be the same as Him. Will we get it right every single time on the bullseye? No, because we are human. However, we are all created in God’s image, and we should be yearning to be transformed in His image and we should take the steps of reflecting who He is.

During such difficult times and trying seasons for our country, we should be in a consistent posture of prayer and repentance in our own lives for our wrongdoings. We also are called to be faithful in looking for and responding to opportunities of sharing the Good News. Spiritual awakenings have happened in our country’s heritage, when we repent of our sins individually and corporately. May we be easy to hit the floor, plead with God, and wait for Him to respond.

God, you are our only refuge, and we look to you for guidance and direction of what you are calling us to do and speak for your glory.