The Breastplate of Righteousness

Opening Thoughts

Sunday we learned that standing firm against the enemy begins with knowing where we stand with God. Paul tells us to put on the breastplate of righteousness and to have our feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Because of Jesus, we can be made right with God. And because we have been made right with God, we can have peace with God. That doesn’t mean every circumstance will be peaceful. It doesn’t mean the enemy won’t attack.

It means something much stronger:

The enemy may attack my life, but he cannot change my standing with God.

But knowing where I stand also changes how I live. Jesus doesn’t just give me His righteousness; He also calls me to live a new life of obedience. When I knowingly hold onto sin or refuse something Jesus has made clear, I can give the enemy a foothold.

So this week, instead of asking yourself the question from last week, “Do I believe Jesus?”, now ask:

“Am I willing to LIVE like I believe Jesus?”

This Week’s Scripture

“Stand firm then,…with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”
Ephesians 6:14-15

BELIEVE

My righteousness is found in Christ
My peace with God is through Christ.
My confidence is in Christ.
Therefore, I can stand firm.

DO - Practice Looking Like Jesus

Ask Jesus one simple question today:
“Is there anything in my life You have already made clear that I am refusing to obey?”

Don’t overcomplicate your response. If He brings something to mind, take one clear step of obedience. And if you’ve been following Jesus for a long time but realize your heart has drifted, remember His invitation to the church in Ephesus:

Remember. Repent. Return.
Come back to Jesus.

PRAY

“Jesus, show me where my life is not aligned with Your truth. Help me listen to You even when what You say challenges what I think, feel, or want. Because of what you tell me in scripture, give me the courage to trust You enough to change and follow You there. Amen”

Remember

Focus on God’s Word and may it encourage you during the day.

THIS WEEK’S VERSE:

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:1

Read it. Say it. Memorize it. Let God’s Word become part of the way you think and live.

For the remainder of this week, if life gets challenging or overwhelming, remember what Jesus has accomplished for YOU, and with Him you can stand firm.

Following Jesus together... and being a good neighbor,
Pastor Mark