Pastor James talked about living on a spiritual battleground, and if you’re going to be victorious, you must put on the armor and understand how to stand against the enemy. Let’s not be naïve about the nature of the world we live in. Love is a battlefield.
MY STORY | Starting Place
How do you prepare to face your day? What is the first thing you do when you wake up? How do you get mentally ready for what lies ahead in the next 16 hours?
DIGGING DEEPER | Practical Biblical Application
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:10-12)
Is there anything in your daily life that diminishes your joy or disturbs your peace? If so, where do you think that comes from?
What are some examples of (human) attacks that we can experience in today’s world? Which of these have made a significant impact on you?
What is spiritual warfare? How is it like, and not like, encountering hostile human beings in our lives. What is your role when you find yourself embroiled in spiritual warfare?
What are some of the antics the powers of darkness use to attack us? How can we be alert an imminent incursion?
GROWING TOGETHER | Spiritual Friendship
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:13-20)
Discuss each of the tools in the armor of God. Share examples of how or when you might be able to use each one in real life. Do some come more naturally to you than others? Why do you think that is?
Knowing that we need to “take up the FULL armor of God to be able to withstand in the evil day” (Ephesians 6:13), what are some practical ways in which you can use each part of the armor daily? Which one needs sharpening or strengthening?
Does any of the armor of God seem “too big” or too hard to wear? What is that piece? Why do you believe it doesn’t fit you?
Do you feel like you are suffering any personal (supernatural) attacks right now? Can you share this with the group? How can you experience freedom from these incursions.
MOVING OUTWARD | Faith in Action
When daily attacks come your way (somebody cuts you off, family drama, illness, unemployment, financial distress, marital spats, etc.), what will be your first step in facing down those confrontations? What part of the armor of God can you use to fend off these affronts?
Be alert this week of those daily, supernatural incursions into your heart and mind, and then prayerfully cover yourself with the armor of God. Pick one with which you struggle or doesn’t come naturally, and practice covering yourself with it—or just using it.
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