Ephesians

Fifth Day: Review Ephesians 6:10-17, concentrating on verses 14-16.

1. What is the next piece of armor we are to stand with? (Ephesians 6:14b)

2. The breastplate fits over the heart and guards our heart. That is one of the most frequent places of attack against a Christian. We feel a lack of assurance, we feel unworthy, we feel we are a failure in the Christian life and that God therefore is no longer interested in us. We feel that emotional sense of guilt and misery. What encouragement do you receive from Romans 8:1 and 1 Corinthians 1:30?

3. Challenge: We stand on Christ’s merits; He is our righteousness. God wants us, His children, to live righteous lives, and He does not condemn us when we fail. He deals with us as a Father, not as a judge. What do you learn of this from Hebrews 12:5-10?

4. a. After the breastplate, what is the next piece of armor? (Ephesians 6:15)

b. Aching, bruised, cut feet would render a soldier unfit to fight, but with the proper shoes a soldier can be ready. From Romans 5:1, how do we have peace with God?

5. Now we begin the list of armor we are to “take up.” What piece are we to take up first, and what can we do with it? (Ephesians 6:16)

6. Personal: Faith is not “positive thinking.” Faith is believing God—believing what He has said, what He has revealed to us in His Word. We have learned that the devil is an accuser and a liar. When he throws his fiery darts of lies and accusations, we must choose to believe God. Your faith will grow stronger and purer as it is exercised, and as you grow in the knowledge of God. Are you in the midst of conflict right now? Even if you don’t understand why God has allowed something in your life, will you choose to trust Him? Will you trust that He is all-powerful, that He is completely good, and that He loves you? Will you trust that He can work even this thing you are dealing with for your good?