A. The Belt of Truth

The first step in preparation for battle was for men to gird their loins. Men in ancient times wore long, loose robes. These robes were difficult to run in and could hinder a person fighting in battle. Because of this, men would pull the robes up and tie them about their wastes with a belt. From this belt they would also attach other battle gear. The belt of truth is that on which our other equipment rests. The scabbard for a sword and the breastplate are both attached to the belt.

• Why is truth so important in spiritual battle?
• What are some of the worlds lies about life? Satan’s lies?
• How can untruths (lies) hinder us in spiritual battle?

B. The Breastplate of Righteousness

The breastplate guards your heart (See Psalm 119:11). Our basic defence against evil is obedience to the will of God as revealed in the Bible. Wrong actions and thoughts are weak spots through which Satan can shoot his flaming arrows. (see also Proverbs 4:23: It is important for the Christian to guide his mind and his heart. Why? They determine our actions. You might discuss ways to guard our heart and mind.)

• Why is righteousness important in spiritual battle?
• What are some weak spots in your breastplate (i.e. areas that you are vulnerable to spiritual attack)?

C. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

Bad shoes can really have an impact on you in the battle. If you have ever run for any distance with a bad pair of shoes you understand the difference good shoes can make. The gospel is one of peace—peace between God and man. Because of the peace we have with God we are able to fight our battles. (see also Romans 10:13-15)

• Do you have peace with God? Why or why not?
• How can peace with God help you to be a better soldier in battle?

D. The Shield of Faith

The shield Paul mentions is not a small round shield, but the shield common in his time. It measured about 2 1/2 feet across and about 4 feet tall. It was made of leather, often soaked in water so that it could protect against flaming arrows. Faith is trust in God. The root of most sin is a lack of trust that God can or will meet your needs. Because we do not trust God, we try to meet our own needs, in ways that are harmful to us. God created us and knows us best so he is best able to meet our needs. Faith thus becomes our protection against harm.

• Why is faith so important in spiritual battle? How does it protect us from attacks?
• What are some areas in which you have a hard time trusting God?

E. The Helmet of Salvation

The head is the most vital area of a soldier. Often as a soldier looked above his shield his head was vulnerable. With Christ as your savior, you are no longer vulnerable.

• Are you wearing the helmet of salvation? If so, when were you saved? If not, why not?
• How does a person become saved?

F. The Sword of the Spirit

The “sword of the Spirit” is the only offensive weapon listed. It is the only weapon adequate for spiritual battle. Only through God’s Word can we fight our battles. (See Psalm 119:11 and Hebrews 4:12) Whenever a soldier goes to battle, he takes his weapons with him. Christians are often involved in spiritual battle, yet we often leave our “swords” at home. We fail to practice using our swords and then don’t even take them to battle. Memorizing scripture helps us to have our swords available at all time. Christ was always prepared for battle and armed with the “sword.” (see Matthew 4)

• Why is the Bible important in spiritual battle?
• Do you practice using your “sword” of the Spirit?
• Do you keep your scripture knowledge sharp or do you let it rust?
• Do you carry your sword with you to battle?
• Do you memorize scripture?