Put A Helmet On!

“Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Ephesians 6:17

Not too long ago a friend was in need of some extra encouragement. Luckily for my friend I had just finished writing a paper on the Armor of God and had gained some insights that I thought would be encouraging and helpful. As I write this I suspect there are others who might find encouragement from the same words.

Today’s verse focuses on two parts of the armor God has prepared for us; really the helmet is one of the more important pieces. One of the commentaries I was using had this to say about this particular piece of the armor.

The purpose of the helmet, of course, was to protect the head from injury particularly from the dangerous broadsword commonly used in those days (Bible times). The fact that the helmet is related to salvation indicated that Satan’s blows are directed at the believer’s security and assurance in Christ. The two dangerous edges of Satan’s spiritual broadsword are discouragement and doubt. To discourage us he points to our failures, our sins, our unresolved problems, our poor health, or whatever else seems to be negative in our lives in order to make us lose confidence in the love and care of our heavenly father.

So take up arms against the one who wants you in the pit - the devil. Abide in the truth - live right in obedience to God - be ready by knowing God’s Word and claiming the peace it offers -grab hold of faith it will shield you from the arrows of discouragement - make sure you put your helmet on and that you have your sword at the ready. And there is a secret weapon - that makes all this armor indestructible. That weapon is prayer - pray always and for everything, pray for others and ask others to pray for you.

So this week if you feel like you are about to slip into a pit of despair, if you are discouraged and doubting the amazing grace and love of your heavenly Father… PUT A HELMET ON!

A Prayer
Father - Forgive us for the times when we allow the world to discourage us and to cause us to doubt You. Help us remember to put on Your armor and especially the helmet. Surround us with people who will encourage us when we are down and help us to live authentically, asking for help when we need it. Thank you for loving us even through our doubt. In the name of Jesus, Amen.