"putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” ~1 Thessalonians 5:8

“But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” ~1 Thessalonians 5:8

This passage, written around 50AD, is part of a warning to Christians about the coming destruction of Jerusalem (in 70AD). Paul was likening their lives to that of a battle. Check out this quote that connects us to these Christians some 1975 years later!

“When you live in Culture War Mode there is always a battle to fight, a side to take and people to fear. When you live in God’s Kingdom there’s always a stranger to welcome, a neighbor to befriend, and an enemy to love.” ~Dan White Jr., Love Over Fear

Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12 that our battle is not against flesh and blood (even though many of them would live during one of the most gruesome times in history. Writings tell us that not one Christian was left in Jerusalem when Rome attacked. They all escaped by heeding the warnings of Jesus and the apostles). Satan and his minions fuel war, ramping up rage and riot. Our battle is a spiritual one.

BEST NEWS! We don’t have to go at it alone! In fact, we can’t. We have the Spirit of God living within us, always on duty, ever engaged, shielding, protecting, comforting, guiding and pouring out His love in our hearts [Romans 5:5]. Love conquers all. God is love [1 John 4:8] He has equipped us for all things in our life’s journey!

Ephesians 5:8  “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light”