resisting the devil

This is Paul speaking here, to the followers of Jesus in Ephesus...

He gives some advice in resisting the devil, using body armor of the time as examples.

I know it's not all that cache to believe in the devil.

Having experienced his activity in & around my life, particularly in the last 7 years, I would say that he is an entity with whom to be reckoned.

And I figure Paul had some pretty strong experiences with him, too.



Ephesians 6

10 A final word: 

Be strong in the Lord 

and in his mighty power.

11 Put on all of God's armor 

so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.

12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, 

but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, 

against mighty powers in this dark world, 

and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.


  13 Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor 

so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. 

Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

14 Stand your ground, 

putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness.

15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News 

so that you will be fully prepared.

16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.

17 Put on salvation as your helmet, 

and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.



  18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. 

Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.