What Are The 7 Pieces Of Armor Of God According To The Kjv Bible?

The armor of God is a biblical metaphor that many Christians are familiar with, but what exactly are the 7 pieces described in Ephesians 6:10-18? This comprehensive guide will examine each component of the armor and how it spiritually protects believers today.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: according to the King James Version (KJV), the 7 pieces of the armor of God are the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit, and praying in the Spirit.

Belt of Truth

Meaning and Importance

The belt of truth is the first piece of the armor of God that Paul mentions in Ephesians 6:14. This belt holds the rest of the armor in place and prepares believers for spiritual battle. The belt illustrates the truth of God that believers should cling to.

God’s truth exposes deception and protects from lies. Knowing God’s truth is essential for victorious Christian living.

Jesus declared Himself to be “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). As Christians, we have the responsibility to speak the truth, fight for the truth, and live in the truth. When we know the truth of God’s Word, we can withstand the schemes of the enemy.

Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44), so God’s truth is our best defense against his attacks.

Some key truths that the belt of truth contains are:

• The inspiration and authority of Scripture
• Salvation by grace through faith in Christ
• The deity and sinless life of Christ
• Christ’s death and resurrection
• The indwelling of the Holy Spirit
• The promise of eternal life

Knowing these foundational truths helps keep us spiritually strong and centered. As we study the Bible, we continually fill our belts with truth.

How to Use It

To put on the belt of truth, we must be committed to living honestly and with integrity. We demonstrate truthfulness in our speech, thoughts, and actions. This means replacing lies and deception with God’s truth at all times.

When faced with temptation and deception, we cling to what we know is true from the Bible.

We also put on the belt of truth by renewing our minds according to God’s Word (Romans 12:2). Immersing our minds in Scripture protects us from believing lies. Staying in prayerful communication with God also strengthens our ability to discern truth from deception.

In addition, putting on the belt of truth means being transparent and living authentically. Being real about our struggles allows others to speak truth into our lives. Living openly creates accountability and helps other believers watch out for us.

Lastly, putting on the belt of truth means being committed to truth in community. This means confronting sin in church discipline when necessary and having hard conversations. While speaking the truth in love, we help other Christians avoid deception and walk in the light.

The belt of truth holds everything together. Without truth, the spiritual armor is incomplete and falls apart. Knowing God’s truth and being grounded in that truth is essential for victory over the enemy’s lies. We must be committed to truth to stand firm when spiritual battles come.

Breastplate of Righteousness

Meaning and Importance

The breastplate of righteousness refers to living a moral, just life in obedience to God’s commandments (Isaiah 59:17). As described by the apostle Paul, putting on the breastplate of righteousness is one way believers can protect themselves from evil attacks (Ephesians 6:13-14).

This righteousness is not earned by good deeds, but is given as a free gift when one puts their faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21-22). However, believers still have a responsibility to live righteously, rather than continuing in sin (Romans 6:1-2).

The breastplate shielded a soldier’s vital organs from mortal blows. Likewise, living rightly guards our heart and conscience from condemnation and secrecy (1 Timothy 1:5). It gives us confidence to approach God in prayer (1 John 3:21-22).

How to Use It

We “put on” the breastplate of righteousness by reading God’s word and allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and transform our conduct (Romans 12:2). This involves replacing sinful thoughts and behaviors with righteous ones.

For example, we should speak truthfully, work diligently, care for the disadvantaged, forgive others, refrain from immorality, and so forth (Ephesians 4:25-32). As we train our conscience in righteousness, we will more easily discern God’s will (Hebrews 5:14).

Additionally, surrounding ourselves with righteous friends reinforces righteous living. How awesome it is when believers stir one another to godliness through accountability and modeling Christlike behavior!

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

Meaning and Importance

The shoes of the gospel of peace refer to the readiness to spread the gospel of peace as mentioned in Ephesians 6:15. Just as shoes protect our feet and enable us to walk long distances, this piece of the armor of God allows believers to fearlessly spread the good news of salvation wherever we go.

This vital piece of armor enables Christians to stand firm in their faith and walk steadily on the path of righteousness. The gospel itself brings inner peace and reconciliation between man and God. As we spread this message to others, it facilitates peace and unity in the body of Christ.

Additionally, these gospel shoes represent the blessings and benefits of a right standing with God that comes from believing in Christ (Isaiah 52:7). Putting on these shoes daily reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice for our sins so we can have everlasting life and peace.

How to Use It

We can put on the shoes of peace by always being prepared to share gospel truth in any circumstance or conversation. Some practical ways to apply this include:

• Make a deliberate effort to bring up spiritual matters with unbelievers when appropriate.
• Look for opportunities to introduce people to Christ such as during times of crisis or transition.
• Regularly pray for open doors and courage to spread the gospel to new people.
• Set aside time each week to intentionally build relationships with non-Christians.

Additionally, we must have our feet fitted with the stability that comes from knowing the gospel message. Some key ways to equip ourselves include:

• Thoroughly study the core truths about salvation through faith in Jesus.
• Memorize key Bible verses about the saving power of the gospel.
• Read biographies of great evangelists and missionaries.
• Attend conferences or classes offering practical evangelism training.

As we daily put on these gospel shoes and intentionally spread the message of Christ, we will experience the Bible’s promise that “how beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news” (Romans 10:15).

Our consistent efforts can have an exponential impact, bringing salvation, healing, and wholeness to many lives.

Shield of Faith

Meaning and Importance

The shield of faith is an important piece of spiritual armor that God provides believers to withstand attacks from Satan (Ephesians 6:16). It enables Christians to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Just as an ancient Roman shield protected soldiers from arrows and spears, faith protects our hearts and minds from doubts and lies.

More specifically, the shield of faith refers to the confidence and trust we place in God and His Word. It’s not self-generated faith, but God-given faith. When we believe God’s promises and stand on Scriptures, we lift the shield to stop the enemy’s attacks.

The shield guards our hearts against temptations and protects our minds from false guilt, fear, worry, and deceitful philosophies.

The shield of faith is so vital because Satan aims for our hearts and minds. If he can instill fear and confusion, he can render us useless. As GotQuestions.org explains, “Faith acts like a shield precisely when believers grasp the realities God has revealed in His Word.”

By clinging to Scriptural truths, we block the devil’s lies from penetrating our hearts and reigning in our minds.

How to Use It

We lift the shield of faith by renewing our minds with Scripture and relying on the Holy Spirit. Some practical ways to wield this shield include:

• Reading the Bible daily to immerse our minds in the truth
• Memorizing key Scriptures about God’s faithfulness, power, love to counter lies
• Praying Scriptures out loud to defend our minds against negative thoughts
• Saying “It is written” aloud and quoting relevant Bible verses when doubting God’s promises
• Trusting facts about God’s character rather than feelings
• Focusing on things which are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable (Philippians 4:8)

Helmet of Salvation

Meaning and Importance

The helmet of salvation refers to the protection and hope provided by the assurance of salvation through faith in Christ (Ephesians 6:17). Just as a soldier’s helmet protects their head on the battlefield, the confidence we have in our salvation guards our minds against doubt and despair.

This piece of spiritual armor reminds believers that they have been rescued from sin and condemnation, reassuring them of their eternal security in God’s family.

Having the helmet of salvation firmly in place is crucial for standing firm in spiritual warfare. Without it, Christians leave themselves vulnerable to attacks causing confusion, accusation, and wrong thinking.

But when we are rooted in the knowledge of our salvation, we have an unwavering foundation from which to fend off the lies and distortions of the enemy. The promise of eternal life with Christ allows believers to stand faithfully through all of life’s trials and tribulations.

How to Use It

There are several key ways Christians can make use of the helmet of salvation in their daily lives:

• Renew your mind with Scripture verses about salvation – Passages like Ephesians 2:8-9, John 3:16, and Romans 10:9 are powerful reminders of the grace we have through Christ.
• Rebuke Satan’s accusations with the truth of your position in Christ – When the enemy whispers lies that you are unforgiven or unworthy, boldly proclaim your status as a saved child of God.
• Remember your future hope – Allow the promise that one day you will be resurrected to new life without sickness, pain, or sadness to anchor your perspective when faced with earthly troubles.
• Stay in community with other believers – Surrounding ourselves with brothers and sisters who can help nurture our faith provides affirmation and support when doubts arise.
• Engage in worship and prayer – Activities focused on God’s grace and mighty power stir up assurance of our salvation.

Keeping the helmet of salvation secured requires being regularly immersed in the truth claims of Scripture. Just as a soldier dutifully maintains their gear, so too must Christians frequently reaffirm what Christ has done for them in order to withstand attack.

Some find quoting verses, listening to worship music, journaling prayers, and sharing testimonies helpful for keeping salvation at the forefront of their minds.

When believers make use of this piece of armor, it filters out the lies of condemnation and inadequacy, exchanging them for wholeness, purpose, and hope. Grounding oneself in salvation sets a sturdy foundation for living boldly and faithfully as ambassadors of Christ to a broken world.

Sword of the Spirit

Meaning and Importance

The sword of the Spirit is an important piece of the armor of God that is described in Ephesians 6:17. This verse tells us to “take…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” The sword of the Spirit represents the Bible, which is described as the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).

Just as a physical sword can be used both defensively and offensively in battle, God’s Word equips believers to defend their faith and proclaim the gospel to others.

The Bible contains incredible power because it is inspired by God and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16-17). When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, He responded to each temptation by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).

This demonstrated the power of God’s Word to counter the enemy’s lies and deceptions. As followers of Christ today, we can wield the sword of the Spirit by memorizing and meditating on Scripture, allowing it to guide our thoughts, words, and actions.

Some key verses emphasize the importance of God’s Word in the believer’s life:

• “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11)
• “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
• “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)

As we saturate our minds with God’s truth, we are strengthened in our faith and equipped to live victoriously. The sword of the Spirit is an essential weapon for every Christian!

How to Use It

Here are some practical ways to wield the sword of the Spirit in daily life:

• Read the Bible regularly to grow in knowledge of God’s Word.
• Memorize key verses about issues you face (fear, doubt, anger etc).
• Meditate on Scripture by thinking deeply about its meaning and application.
• Study the Bible and research contexts to interpret it accurately.
• Apply God’s Word to your life and allow it to transform your thinking and actions.
• Use Scripture when sharing your faith or explaining Christian beliefs.
• Counter lies and deception by quoting relevant Bible verses.
• Pray God’s Word back to Him and align your prayers with His will.

The book of Hebrews describes God’s Word as “alive and active” and “sharper than any double-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). As we wield this powerful weapon, it changes us from the inside out by convicting, encouraging, strengthening, and guiding us.

The sword of the Spirit enables us to live victoriously and make a spiritual impact in the lives of others. With skillful use of Scripture, we can defend truth, fight spiritual battles, and boldly proclaim the gospel. Let’s wield this mighty sword every day!

Praying in the Spirit

Meaning and Importance

Praying in the Spirit refers to praying according to the leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It involves relying on the Spirit to direct our thoughts, words, and prayers instead of just praying our own ideas and desires. This type of prayer is important for several reasons:

First, the Spirit helps us to pray according to God’s will. Romans 8:26-27 tells us that the Spirit intercedes for us before God with groans too deep for words. The Spirit knows the mind and will of God, so when we follow the Spirit’s leading in prayer, our prayers will align with God’s purposes.Second, the Spirit gives us deeper wisdom and insight in prayer. 1 Corinthians 2:10 says the Spirit searches the deep things of God and knows the thoughts of God. As we pray in the Spirit, we gain supernatural understanding of spiritual realities that we could not know on our own.Third, praying in the Spirit brings power. When we yield control of our prayers to the Holy Spirit, we tap into His divine power and authority. Ephesians 3:20 tells us God is able to do above and beyond all we ask or imagine as we pray according to His power at work in us.

The Spirit empowers our prayers.

How to Use It

Here are some practical tips for praying in the Spirit:

• Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words before you begin praying.
• Focus on God’s presence and open your heart to the Spirit’s leading as you pray.
• Speak the words and prayers the Spirit brings to mind, not just your own ideas.
• Pray in tongues/unknown languages to fully engage your spiritual mind.
• Listen to the Spirit’s promptings during prayer for wisdom and direction.
• Trust that the Spirit’s leading, even if not understood, aligns with God’s purposes.
• Thank the Spirit for His work and guidance after prayer.

It can take practice to distinguish the Spirit’s leading from our own thoughts. But as we grow in tuning our hearts to the Spirit in prayer, we will experience His power and intimate presence more and more.

Praying in the Spirit takes our communication with God to profound new levels. As we learn to yield control to the Holy Spirit in prayer, we will see breakthroughs, growth, and transformation that only He can bring about in our lives.

Conclusion

The full armor of God is made up of the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit, and Spirit-led prayer. Together, these pieces protect us from spiritual attacks and equip us to advance God’s kingdom.

Studying and applying what each part means will lead to greater spiritual maturity and effectiveness for every believer.