But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action. James 1:25 MSG
Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain
is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.
It is not good to eat much honey,
nor is it glorious to seek one’s own glory. Proverbs 25:26-27
To live a righteous life before the Lord takes determination, discipline, and relationship with God. True humility is required. Realization of the blessing(s) you already have … is also needed to have the gratefulness of spirit. A heart quick to turn back to the Lord keeps one on the path of the Lord rather than wandering for days in the ‘dry’ places. (1 John 1:9) Sometimes the walk is difficult and it feels like you’re walking through a bog and each step takes a lot of effort. The dangers and difficulties are real because we are yet free from this earth which is plagued with evil and a curse. We also have unseen enemies who are looking to hinder us in anyway that they can.
This is why Paul urges us through the Holy Spirit to ‘put on’ the full armor of God. (Ephesians 6:11,13) To first century Christians when reading this sentence, their imagery was quick to be familiar with the Roman soldier in full armor. Paul was reminding the faithful that they were still in a (spiritual) battle and to be alert and prepared against the methods and schemes of their enemies.
So Paul urges us and them to…
Put on alétheia. “In the New Testament, ἀλήθεια (alétheia) is used to denote truth in a variety of contexts, including the truth of God, the truth of the Gospel, and the truth as a moral and ethical standard. It signifies not only factual correctness but also sincerity, integrity, and faithfulness. Alétheia is often contrasted with falsehood and deception, emphasizing the divine nature of truth as revealed in Jesus Christ and the Scriptures.” Biblehub.
Put on the thorax. refers to “the breastplate of righteousness” (ton thōraka tēs dikaiosynēs) and 1 Thes 5:8 to “the breastplate (thṓraks) of faith.” This indicates righteousness results from obeying the faith God births in the heart (this is confirmed in texts like Js 2:14-26).” Biblehub. The faith talked about here in from the Rhema Word which is spoken directly to your heart. This breastplate (of righteous faith) is to protect all of the person’s vital organs in battle.
To your feet you are to ‘bind’ and fasten the prepared and ready “Good news” (gospel of Jesus Christ) of eiréné (peace). So that wherever you go … you go in His peace with the indwelling Presence of the Holy Spirit.
You are then to pick up the thureos. “The term “thureos” refers to a large, oblong shield used by ancient soldiers, particularly Roman legionaries. It was designed to cover the entire body, providing comprehensive protection during battle. In the New Testament, “thureos” is used metaphorically to describe the “shield of faith” in the spiritual armor of God. In the context of ancient warfare, the “thureos” was a critical piece of a soldier’s armor. It was typically made of wood, covered with leather, and reinforced with metal. The shield’s size and shape allowed soldiers to form a protective wall, known as a “testudo” or tortoise formation, which was particularly effective against arrows and other projectiles. This imagery would have been familiar to early Christians living under Roman rule, providing a vivid metaphor for spiritual defense.” Biblehub.
Next is the perikephalaia. “In ancient times, helmets were a crucial part of a soldier’s armor, often made of bronze or iron, and sometimes adorned with crests or plumes. They were designed to protect the head from blows during combat. The imagery of a helmet would have been familiar to the original audience of the New Testament, as Roman soldiers were a common sight in the first-century Mediterranean world.” Biblehub. Think of this piece of equipment that helps protect your mind. We must remember to wear our helmet and bring every thought captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5) This IS our ‘helmet’ of sótérios. “In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of salvation was often associated with deliverance from physical danger or political oppression. However, in the New Testament, “sótérios” takes on a deeper spiritual meaning, referring to the deliverance from sin and eternal death through Jesus Christ. This salvation is not just a future hope but a present reality for believers, impacting their daily lives and relationships.” Biblehub.
Then we are to take up the machaira. “The term “machaira” refers to a short sword or dagger, commonly used in the ancient world for both military and domestic purposes. In the New Testament, it is often used metaphorically to represent conflict, division, or the Word of God as a tool for spiritual warfare. In the Greco-Roman world, the machaira was a versatile weapon, favored for its effectiveness in close combat. It was a symbol of authority and power, often carried by soldiers and officials. The machaira was also used in sacrificial rituals, highlighting its dual role in both life-taking and life-giving contexts. This ‘sword / knife’ was a short sword and in the Roman context was mainly used for stabbing and an instrument for exacting retribution.” Biblehub.
What is the ‘sword’ in the spiritual context? The rhema Theou / Word of God. This is the “Word” given by the Holy Spirit to YOU specifically into your heart. It is NOT the Logos or ‘complete’ Word of God – but a portion spoken directly to you by God. This means you must ‘hear’ and listen to the Spirit of God when He is speaking to you. It is with this “specific Word” in which God has spoken to your heart that you are to use against the enemy in battle.
Are you a ‘determined’ person – who hears the ‘counsel’ of the Lord and sets out to DO it? Or are you still plodding along on your own path?
Are you determined to walk His path for you? How much? Can you recognize the spiritual warfare surrounding you? Are you ready to meet it in battle?