July 14

THE VERSE

Stand, therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.
~Ephesians 6:14

THE THOUGHT

What is this “breastplate of righteousness,” and how does it help us to stand against the schemes of the devil? It is incredibly illuminating to think of each of these pieces of armor literally: what do they guard, how are they given, and what are they? The breastplate of a soldier protected his heart and other vital organs. All of the pieces of the armor of God are gifts of the gospel, from the shoes fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, to the helmet of salvation. Here, the breastplate of righteousness is none other than the righteousness of God Himself, as seen in Isaiah 59:17- “He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head.”

The righteousness that guards the believer’s heart against the schemes and lies and accusations of Satan is the righteousness of Christ, given to us in the gospel. Christ’s righteousness gives us the confidence of God’s favor toward us, and assurance of pardon and victory.

Every day, put on the righteousness of Christ as a breastplate to guard against Satan’s attacks of despair and guilt, and stand equipped to fight in the strength of the gospel.

THE PRAYER

Jesus, Thank you for earning a perfect righteous standing before the Father by Your perfect life and death. United to You by faith, I know that Your perfect righteousness is now mine, and I stand perfect and accepted before the Father. Thank you for everything You have done for me; help me to live in the good and the strength of the gospel every day.

EXTENDED READING

Isaiah 59:16-17
Romans 3:21-24
Ephesians 6:10-17

THE QUOTE

“When God speaks in ways that are completely contrary to our expectations, then we have encountered something genuine. No one could invent a god who, in response to rebellion, is so generous that he gives his entire kingdom. Since this is too good to be true, it must be true. This, indeed, must be the Holy One.” ~Ed Welch

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

2 Chronicles 3-5
Psalm 139
Luke 10:17-24
1 Thessalonians 3:7-13