What Would Happen?

Daily Reading:  Ephesians 6

Scripture Focus: ¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, ¹⁸ praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, ¹⁹ and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6.10-20)

Devotional Thought and Prayer:  What would happen if every day in the coming year, we would pray the following prayer?

Lord God, this day…

I put on the belt of truth in order to recognize the light of the Kingdom and the lies of Satan.

I put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect my heart from all wrong affections, my head from all wrong attractions, and my hands from all wrong actions.

I slip on the gospel sandals:  I pray, “Make me ready – my feet fitted with the gospel of peace – to share Christ’s love everywhere with everyone in every way.  The gates of hell cannot prevail against your Church!”

I take up the shield of faith, for I know that my enemy – the devil – is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.  But by faith in the name of Jesus, I shall overcome. 

I put on the helmet of salvation.  May it protect me from trusting in myself or in anybody or anything else besides you. 

I pick up the sword of the Spirit – the very Word of God.  May it become a part of my life.  Change me by the power of your Word so that you may use me to change the world.

I commit to pray in the Spirit today, for all the saints with all kinds of prayers.  Please help me to sense your presence and talk to you all day.

And finally, Lord, I pray for my pastor and for others in authority over the church that they may fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.

In the name of Jesus, I pray,

Amen

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 150.1-6

1 Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens!

2 Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness!

3 Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp!

4 Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe!

5 Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals!

6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!