In these challenging times, trials and tribulations can test our resolve, making our walk with God feel like an uphill climb. Yet, we are not alone on this journey. The Lord is with us, and He has equipped us with the necessary armor for this spiritual battle.

As the letter to the Ephesians comes to a close, Paul writes, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his might—so that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” These words are not merely a call to resistance, but a rallying cry for us to stand firm in our faith, to hold our ground against the adversities we face.

Remember, we are not just spectators but active participants in this spiritual battle. We are called to stand firm, to hold our ground, and to fight the good fight of faith. It’s time to RESTART OUR RESOLVE TO STAND.

Outline

• By God’s grace, we are made
  Reveal Answer
  , made
  Reveal Answer
  , and enabled to
  Reveal Answer
  because of his strength and his might.

We Once Were:
- Dead—2:1
- Following the prince of the power of the air—2:2
- Children of wrath—2:3
- Separated from Christ—2:12
- Aliens—2:19
- Strangers—2:19
- Gospel mystery was hidden—3:5
- Immature children—4:14
- Old self—4:22
- Darkness—5:

We Now Are:
- Alive—2:5
- Seated in Christ in the heavenly places—2:6
- Children with an inheritance—1:18
- Near to Christ—2:13
- Fellow citizens—2:19
- Members of the household of God—2:19
- Understanding the Gospel mystery—3:4
- Maturing in Christ—4:15
- New self—4:24
- Light—5:8

• Our enemy is real, he schemes, and he is capable—his attacks are vicious, fiery, and definite—he is to be taken seriously.

• God’s provision is full armor and prayer.

• Our regular rhythms of grace are means that the Holy Spirit uses to increase our faith, inform our minds, strengthen our resolve for God’s purposes, and give us confidence when the battles come.

• Praying in the Spirit results in power for the battle—giving us the strength to stand, stirring our affections, and filling our hearts with love for God.

Application

Are you in Christ and is Christ in you?

Do you live with a wartime mentality? Do you perceive Satan as a threat?

Where do you need to RESTART your RESOLVE TO STAND?

Questions

1. Why might some scoff at this passage about warfare? How would you respond?
2. How is “standing” significant in literal warfare? What does Paul’s frequent use of “stand” signify in spiritual warfare?
3. From where do Christians derive strength? How do we do so?
4. Explain the nature and work of the enemy based on this passage.
5. What encourages and challenges you most in Paul’s “final remarks” (6:21–24)?