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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: ONWARD CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS (don't write about the song) (05/14/15)
Reporting for Duty Lord

March on dear saint—march on. We're on the battlefield for our Savior every day. But there’s no need to lose heart, we are not fighting life’s trials alone (Hebrews 13:5, NKJV). How do we prepare? Before facing the day, gear up. (Ephesians 6: 13, NKJV). There are six essential pieces of armor that we must put on—not one piece can be missing.

1. Put on the belt of truth: All it takes is one thought of defeat and we can spiral out of control within seconds. It’s important for us to have a solid knowledge of the Word of God so that we can thwart the enemy’s attack. Paul encourages us to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, and lovely and of a good report (Philippians 4:8, NKJV). In order for us to become acquainted with, and confident in the Word, we must study (2 Timothy 2:15, NKJV) and meditate on it day and night (Psalm 1:2, NKJV).

2. Put on the breastplate of righteousness: With all of the confusion and turmoil happening today, the world is looking for the truth—it’s watching us. We have to be steadfast and live a life pleasing to God (Romans 12:1-2, NKJV). We may be the only light of hope that someone may see (Matthew 5:14-16, NKJV).

3. Put on the shoes with the preparation of the gospel of peace: We carry the good news message and through our lives we can share it with others. As we go from day to day, the enemy will try to stop us (1 Peter 5:8, NKJV), but we must forge ahead with boldness and proclaim the mighty works of God (Romans 10:15, NKJV).

4. Put on the shield of faith: Whatever God says is true and we can trust Him. We have to be sure about what we believe and why we believe it so that we can withstand tests, trials, and temptations. Daring to proceed without faith, is not pleasing to God (Hebrews 11:6, NKJV). And when we pray, we must be cautious not to allow doubt to enter our minds (James 1:8, NKJV).

5. Put on the helmet of salvation: Acceptance of Jesus Christ as our substitute sacrifice for our sin debt reconciles us to God the Father. Our names are written in the Lambs Book of Life. And we are assured that someday, we’ll reign with Him in glory
(1 Thessalonians 5:8-10, NKJV).

6. Hold firmly onto the sword of the spirit: This is the final piece of the armor—the Word of God. It will equip us for life’s battles. God’s Word is powerful, and alive (Hebrews 4:12, NKJV). Now all we have to do is learn how to use it.

Paul encourages us to be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. We’re facing a spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV). We cannot fight this battle on our own—we need Jehovah Jireh. It is comforting to know that He prepared the way for us. Jesus came and died for our sins; the Holy Spirit lives within us and helps us; and we have the bible, our instruction booklet. The enemy knows his time is short and he’s working overtime. But, we are victorious through Jesus Christ.

Are you ready? Yes Lord, this is your servant reporting for duty!

Nonfiction - Encouragement
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
05/26/15
This is an interesting article. I could easily see you expand it into a Bible or small group study. The only red ink I might offer would be aware of starting sentences with And or But. I know it's becoming more commonplace in informal articles or in dialog, but this felt like a more formal piece to me, and it distracted me slightly. You did a great job of writing on topic. I liked the examples you gave for each article of armor. Your Bible verses were great matches for your messages.
Yvonne Blake 
05/28/15
This is a nice devotional. I like how you backed up each piece of armor with other Scripture - telling how it will help the Christian stand strong in his faith.