(Review: As Christians, we are instructed to be strong in God's power to be prepared for Satan's schemes. Paul explains the attributes of God's power as an armor, and we see specifically what God gives us to stand. Beginning with the belt of truth, our core being is protected from falsehoods.)
Ephesians 6:14b
". . . having put on the breastplate of righteousness,"
Having righteousness is NOT defined as doing the right thing.
Righteousness is a gift from God through our faith in Jesus Christ, despite our good works and despite our actions to do the right thing. We are clothed in righteousness because Jesus has taken away our sins. THAT'S how we have righteousness. 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." God calls Jesus THE LORD OF OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS in Jeremiah 23:6. Abraham showed his faith in God, and in doing so, it was considered righteousness.
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| Photo by xiarimemecha from Pixabay |
Abraham had hope when his life and future seemed hopeless. He had done nothing special, and he was no one special, not in the world's eyes. He saw a desolate, bare life journey ahead. It hurts when we see nothing good ahead. Many emotions surface -- frustration, hopelessness, depression, confusion, loneliness. Perhaps we fail, or we're rejected. Perhaps we're ashamed or embarrassed. Perhaps we feel we're not good enough or are of no worth. Even still, Abraham had hope. Romans 4:12 says we "walk in the steps of faith." And (Romans 4:18) "contrary to hope, in hope believed . . ." despite the stressors and disappointments shoved in our faces.
He loved us. He chose us. We place our faith in Him. Now, keep hoping.
When we feel defeated, it hurts our hearts, emotionally speaking. Even though the pain is emotional, it's still real pain. When we are anxious, stressed, or depressed, our hearts are also physically affected. We may feel desperate for instant relief through arguing, gossiping, shouting, substance abuse, laziness, or isolating ourselves. Proverbs 10:2 says these things "profit nothing." And we know that.
It's during these times that you need to become aware your hope and faith are under attack. Put on the breastplate and find your hope and faith in God. Say it aloud in your shakiest times: "I trust YOU, God! My faith is in YOU, God! My hope is not in anything I can do, but it's in YOU, God!"
Righteousness is a gift God has given His children; wear it as a breastplate. Thank Him for it. He gives encouragement to you for doing so: Proverbs 10:2,3 says "righteousness delivers from death" and that "The LORD will not allow the righteous soul to famish." He also promises: "The work of the righteousness will be peace, / And the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever" (Isaiah 32:17).
"I trust YOU, God!
My faith is in YOU, God!
My hope is not in anything I can do, but it's in YOU, God!"
Be careful in emotional times; that's usually when we're most vulnerable to do or say something stupid, and these are times when Satan can have a foot in the door to attack. Putting on the breastplate or righteousness means you are reminded of God's gift of righteousness. So, exalt Him with hope and faith, assured of His peace.