Being Strong in the Lord

Finally, be strong in the Lord

 and in the strength of his power. 

Put on the whole armor of God, 

so that you may be able to stand 

against the wiles of the devil.

Ephesians 6:10-11

Here's Ephesians 6:10-20

I think it is an understatement to say we live in violent times. 

I believe that's especially true for groups experiencing the evils of the systemic powers of racism, sexism, nationalism, and classism. We live with the increasing potential for demonizing enemies and even average folks who simply disagree with us on politics and religion. 

Righteous people, I believe, are  attempting to live a life worthy of the Lord  within the evils of these systemic powers. 

John Wesley would urges us to, "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can and as long as you can."

What, then, is it that empowers the righteous people to "do all the good you can" when surrounded by evil systemic powers?

Know the gospel of peace. Paul tells the Ephesians, wear God's armor to withstand the attacks of evil. That means to wear the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, (God's Word), and pray in the Spirit at all times.

Persistence in prayer, besides being our main resource, is also is a hallmark of trusting in God’s care and not on our own abilities. Prayer is how we remain open to the promptings and guidance of the Spirit. 

Remember, you are baptized. Recalling your baptismal covenant of renouncing the spiritual forces of wickedness, rejecting the evil powers of this world, repenting of your sin, and finally accepting the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.

Paul's instructions to Ephesians are as relevant and empowering to today's Church surrounded by evil systemic powers.