The Sword of the Spirit

Ephesians 6:17 “…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”  In the armor that we have been looking at, you will notice that all of the other pieces are defensive.  They are for protection.  But the final piece is the only offensive tool we are given…God’s word.  Hebrews 4:12  says “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”  It is so important to know God’s word and be able to apply it to any temptation the enemy puts before us.  In Luke 4, that is exactly what Jesus did.  When in the desert with satan, Jesus used the word of God to dispel all of the temptations that were thrown at him.  Speaking the word of God is very powerful…we don’t even understand how much power it has over the enemy.  Try speaking it out loud when you are in a situation when you know that the devil is there trying to trip you up.  Sing songs that contain scripture.  (Most praise songs are just scripture.)  I am reminded of a song that we used to sing in choir “I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised.  So shall I be saved from my enemies…I will call upon the Lord”.  And guess what Psalm 18:3 says? “I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.”  You already know scripture…you just don’t realize it!   Use your weapon to fight with, don’t just retreat and hide behind your shield.  Come out fighting and have victory over the enemy!