What is the Full Armor of God?

Our battle against the devil is a spiritual one

Therefore, using tangible weapons and worldly methods to fight against him is not applicable. Scripture tells us to put on the full armor of God, that we may stand against the devil’s attacks and gain victory.

So what exactly is this armor, and what does it mean? Six specific pieces of armor are described in Ephesians 6:10-18.

Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Belt of truth

The belt of Truth means wearing Christ, for He is the “way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) In the olden days, the girdle (belt) held together the soldier’s garments, to allow for freer movement while engaging in combat and also served to carry the sheath that holds the sword, for easy access. The belt has to be worn securely, meaning the Truth must be a close part of us at all times.

Breastplate of righteousness

A breastplate shielded a warrior’s vital organs from fatal blows. We are confident not in our own works of righteousness, but in the righteousness of Christ, by faith, and this will guard us against against accusations and charges brought by Satan.

Footwear (Feet fitted) with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace,

Our feet must be on the go – ready to take action upon command as we advance into Satan’s territory, win over souls and reclaim this world for Christ.

Shield of faith

The first line of defense is the warrior’s shield. The devil tries to make us question God and His Word, but holding up strong faith in Christ will be like a solid shield that wards off every doubt.

Helmet of salvation

The head is the most critical of the body, where our innermost thoughts and beliefs are. When the gospel of salvation is securely placed in our mind, we are enabled to discern between false doctrine and spiritual truth, keeping ourselves from spiritually fatal blows.

Sword of the spirit / Word of God

The only offensive weapon in the armor of God is the Sword of the spirit; all others mentioned above are defensive armor. The Sword is the Word of God, against which Satan has no chance. There is no greater spiritual weapon than God’s Word, and Jesus also cited Scripture to ward off the devil when he was tempted in the desert.

Don’t forget prayer

Finally, along with all this armor, we are told to pray in the Spirit. In spiritual warfare, prayer cannot be neglected, for it is our plea to God, through which we draw strength by seeking His supernatural power.

All in all, warriors of Christ should take heart, for victory has already been promised. God is on our side. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

By Sarah
Bible Portal Contributor