The Sword of the Spirit

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And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God . . . (Eph. 6:17)

On September 19, 2022, the world watched as several members of England’s royal family marched in Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral. They wore regal military uniforms and carried gold-handled swords at their sides. These swords were beautiful heirlooms, symbols of the monarchy’s authority and power, not meant for actual battle.

Unlike those ceremonial swords, God’s word—the sword of the Spirit—is intended for warfare. Every other piece of armour in Ephesians 6 has been defensive and protective, helping God’s people resist evil and stand firm against it. The sword of the Spirit, our only offensive weapon, can defeat every temptation, sin, and evil scheme that opposes God and his kingdom.

The enemy wants us to believe that this weapon is optional or reserved for an elite few—ministry leaders, mature believers, or people with seminary degrees. But the truth is, this sword is indispensable for every Christian. And the Holy Spirit helps us wield it. He enables us to “understand the things freely given us by God” (1 Cor. 2:12). So pray, before you open God’s word, expectantly asking for discernment, understanding, and wisdom. He will supply it!

Not only is the sword for every believer, but it’s also for every battle. God’s word is the ultimate weapon, creating, sustaining, and regenerating his people. His word empowers us, whether we’re fighting our sin or Satan’s schemes. The word isn’t just for Sundays, holidays, or special occasions. We need it every day. Is God’s word merely decorative, sitting closed on your nightstand or bookshelf? Or is it regularly open and ready for action in your hands and heart?

Finally, we need every part of God’s word, not just the parts related to our current season of life or our favourite passages that we return to over and over. If I’m only familiar with passages about parenting and marriage, or I only read Paul’s letters and the Psalms, my knowledge of God will be imbalanced, and I’ll miss out on needed correction and encouragement from God’s word. Second Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God.” Did you catch that? All Scripture proceeds from God, and all Scripture is necessary for life and godliness.

Are you tempted, as I am, to take the whole counsel of God for granted? One way we can combat this temptation is by reading entire books of the Bible, whether it’s reading or listening to a shorter book in one sitting or doing a deeper study through a longer book. Consider making a list of books of the Bible you’ve never read and start working through them.

The Bible isn’t a ceremonial sword, but it is a beautiful heirloom. If you’re in Christ, you are part of God’s royal family, and the sword of the Spirit belongs to you. Every believer needs every part of God’s word for every battle. Friends, take up your indispensable sword and find strength in the power of God’s word today.

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