St. Paul Tells Us to Put on the Armor of God: Why and When Should We Do That?

St. Paul Tells Us to Put on the Armor of God: Why and When Should We Do That? Just as St. Paul spoke directly to the early Christians; he addresses the profound inner and outer battles in living the Christian faith. It’s not merely a struggle to live a good life, though that is part of it; rather, it’s a struggle against forces and influences beyond ourselves. St. Paul clearly warns that evil is not just a pious notion—it’s a tangible reality, with a personal nature that pervades all aspects of our fallen world. No institution, political system, economy, or culture escapes its touch. And this shouldn’t surprise us, for each human heart bears the same compromises. St. Paul Provides a Message to Inspire Us! Powerful forces exist that can easily overtake us if we’re not vigilant. But Paul’s message is not intended to alarm; rather, it is to inspire strength and resilience. He urges believers to confront these darker impulses that seek to control and overpower us. To do this, St. Paul offers the timeless call to “put on the armor of God” for protection. This powerful image reminds us that, while temptation, persecution, and a chaotic world are inevitable, we are not without defense. In a fearful world, this truth is a source of hope and courage. Listen to this Meditation Media message as St. Paul teaches us how to stand firm. Listen to: St. Paul Tells Us to Put on the Armor of God: Why and When Should We Do That? ------------------------------------- Image: St. Paul the Apostle with Sword: Flemish Artist and Painter: Anthony van Dyck: 1620 The Apostle Paul is often depicted with a sword. Why? He writes about putting on the Armor of God. The sword is also a reminder of the means of his martyrdom – he was beheaded in Rome in approximately 67 AD. This artist also has additional work on the QoAH's website. ------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 13: 31-35 First Reading: EPH 6: 10-20