Spiritual Warfare WK-6

Introduction: We will now begin to break down the armor that is listed in Ephesians 6. We have discussed discernment, prayer, the devil, and even the belt of truth. Over the next few weeks we are going to break down each individual piece of armor. Tonight we are going to discuss two, and how they coexist together. Tonight we are going to talk about righteousness and piece.

Romans 14:14–18 NKJV

I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.

The Breastplate of Righteousness

“One of the enemy’s key spiritual warfare strategies is to attack your identity in Christ. After all, if the devil can get you to waver on who you are in Him and your right standing with Him he can use you to lay down the rest of your weapons so he can come in for the kill.” Jennifer LeClaire, 101 Tactics for Spiritual Warfare

What is a breastplate?

Its a part of the the armor that protects a large portion of your body from the neck to the navel. Most fatal wounds are its to this area of the body.

It covers, lungs, stomach, arteries, most importantly the heart.

Righteousness protects your heart form the schemes of the devil and that is why I believe Paul lists the piece of armor first.

Two Types of Righteousness

1.) Self Righteousness

-Filthy Rags (Isaiah 64:6)

-Self-righteousness wont take your anywhere in spiritual warfare.

-This is why we need a Savior (2 Corinthians 5:21)

2.) His Righteousness

2 Corinthians 5:21 NKJV

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

What does it mean to become Righteous?

δικαιοσύνη dikaiosyne (greek)- In a broad sense: State of him who is ah he ought to be, righteousness, the condition, acceptable to God; the doctrine concerning a the way in which a man may attain a state approved of God; integrity, virtue, purity of life, correctness of thinking, feeling, and acting; in a narrower sense: justice or virtue which gives each his due.

“The enemy works to bring a sin consciousness to your soul. You must strive to maintain a righteousness consciousness and ward off guilt, condemnation, and shame that try to creep into your mind and emotions when you sin. If this happens, remember Romans 8:1.” Jennifer LeClaire

Romans 8:1 NKJV

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.

You wont and cant fight when you feel condemned, guilty or ashamed. You must put on righteousness!

If you sin, run to the Lord, don’t throw away your armor!

Shoes of Peace