When we find ourselves in any kind of battle, we immediately understand that our goal is not to merely protect or defend our lives, but that we must also be prepared to attack…to possibly seek out and to destroy the enemy. So far, none of the armory provided for us in Ephesians 6 has had an offensive nature. Paul will now equip the soldier with “the sword of
the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” This is the only weapon of offensive warfare offered…or needed! No spear, no bow and arrows, no ball and chain… just a two foot sword which was often used by Rome’s soldiers. It was a lethal weapon! The effectiveness of this sword was seen when a soldier got close enough to his enemy to strike with a quick thrust, resulting in death! Other swords were mainly five feet long and were heavier and required more room to use effectively. They would be of no use in a cramped arena of battle. This short sword had claimed victims by the millions. Sharp…Swift…and light! This describes the provided sword
for every “soldier” in Christ’s camp! What, exactly, is this sword? It is the sword of the Holy Spirit! The very Word of God! It has the power of God, and is able to bring about the death of devilish temptations, or deadly ideas of lofty pride and arrogant elitism. It can even terminate the racism that leads to our over estimating ourselves! The sword of the Spirit is empowered by God’s Words; His commands, His promises, and the assurance that all are Truth! His Word when spoken, prayed, believed, and obeyed makes the soldier a force to be reckon with. Once the Word has entered the battle, victory is near! The Apostle John wisely explained that we grow “from little children to young men” when we learn and apply the Word! We are matured as the Word abides in us! This is when we then gain strength and overcome the evil one! War is not for “babes”, but rather, for “young men”, and even “fathers” who reproduce their spiritual lives in others. (see I John 2:12-14) The more we learn of His Word and the more we obey His Word, the more lethal and victorious we are in battle! “Father, if the gates of hell are to ever be crashed and destroyed, it will be when we take the offense and attack! Give us courage and skill to win this spiritual war for Jesus Name’s sake. Amen”
