Stand, therefore,

with truth like a belt around your waist,
righteousness like armor on your chest,
(Ephesians 6:14 HCSB)

One of my favorite settings is the Medieval era. The idea of knights and damsels in distress; men willing to risk their lives to save and protect a lady. There has always been those in society who risk their lives to save and protect. Today’s knights are our policemen and women and our firemen. Let’s not forget our military, too.

Our everyday life could be very different without these men and women. I picture a society of pure anarchy. Where no one is safe, especial women and children.

If we go back further in time to the Era when Rome was the ruling nation, we can look at the Roman soldier. That is the basis of Paul’s description of the armor of God. He used it because the people of Ephesus readily understood. A belt around a soldier’s waist did several things, it protected you from the waist down, held your double edge sword, and dagger.

Why call it the belt of truth? Consider what the truth is from Paul’s point of view.

• God is real.
• God loves everyone.
• Jesus is God’s son.
• Jesus died for everyone’s sin.
• We all sin and do wrong.
• Jesus has the power to wipe our sin away.
• All we have to do is ask.

When we accept these truths, they become our protection. They wrap around us.

Paul knew these things to be true. He had a very real encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. I believe with all my heart that if anyone truthfully wants to know if God is real, all they have to do is ask with a believing heart for God to reveal Himself.

The world wants us to believe God isn’t real. Or, they question whether God really said something or really meant something. But, if we read our Bible, asking God to show us the truth, I believe he will.

Lord, thank you for your Son, Jesus. Thank you for his willingness to die for me. I praise you because you protect me from evil when I call on you and trust you.