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Together in Christ: 'Four Relationship Commitments' — Ephesians 6:16-20 Wednesday, October 30, 2024 In addition to all of these [things to be able to resist evil], hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should. — Ephesians 6:16-20 NLT Key Thought... In the previous verses, Paul reminded the Christians in Ephesus that they were at war with the forces of darkness. [1] He stressed that they shouldn't be afraid but should be prepared to stand their ground against Satan's attacks. [2] He also told them about some of the armor they had — and we have — to withstand the attacks of the evil one and defeat him: The belt of truth that helps us distinguish what is from God and what are the lies of Satan. The armor of righteousness, a life focused on honoring God's holy character by our righteous living that pushes Satan's influence out of our lives. The shoes of peace, knowing that we are not at war with people but with Satan. We want to bring the world the love and peace that only Jesus gives through the Good News. In today's verses, Paul adds other pieces of spiritual armor available to believers: The shield of faith that helps us ward off the arrows of Satan. The helmet of salvation that gives us confidence in our relationship with God. The word of God, which the Spirit uses to help us defeat all false messages and attacks against us. Praying by the power of the Holy Spirit for our situation and the challenges faced by our brothers and sisters worldwide. These spiritual weapons help us repel the attacks of Satan and his forces and empower us to stand our ground. So, let's commit to four relationship principles as we seek to put Paul's guidance into practice: Trusting God in faith. Resisting Satan and standing our ground as we face his attacks. Relying upon our brothers and sisters in Christ as we pray for each other. Empowering outreach through prayer to help the lost and broken find peace in Jesus. [1] Ephesians 6:10-12. [2] Ephesians 6:13-15. Today's Prayer Father, I thank You for the wisdom Paul has given us about having proper relationships as we seek to live for you and for the expansion of Your Kingdom. Based on what the Spirit has taught me through Paul, I am committed to trusting You, and please help me to always resist Satan. As Your children, help us to support each other and outreach efforts through our prayers. Lord, please bless us as we seek to be strong in our commitments. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen. Related Scripture Readings Ephesians 6:10-20 Colossians 4:2-6