Salvation and the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17. “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” The first words of life to a darkened soul ignite an interest in salvation. The convicting words of the Bible reveal the facts and consequences of sin, making clear the need for salvation. Lack of righteousness in life shows our helplessness to earn salvation, and when we learn of the judgment to come, our lack of salvation is exposed. The glorious light of the Gospel and the Spirit of God bring salvation to those who put personal trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, and God gives salvation as a free gift without strings attached.
The helmet of salvation now covers the seat of the mind, assuring us that salvation is mine. The hope of salvation that now governs the life of someone who has received salvation is lived out daily. The seat of the intellect needs the covering of the helmet of salvation. There is deliverance from the power of sin in life because of the helmet of salvation. To experience the Lord’s deliverance, we need the helmet of salvation. The power to resist the spirit of the age requires the helmet of salvation. Personal experience of Christ's power in life brings the joy of salvation.
Salvation, past, present, and future, is made clear through the word of God. As each situation in life arises needing an answer, we take up the sword of the Spirit. In a moment of crisis, the proper response is guided by the sword of the Spirit. All testing times with us, as with the Lord Jesus when He was here, can be addressed by the word of God. The sword of the Spirit directs actions that need to be taken appropriately. Accurate interpretations for a need are provided by the sword of the Spirit. The sword of the Spirit applies divine truth personally in my life.
Praying in the Spirit is where the power for victory comes from. There is divine authority when the Holy Spirit responds to the requests of the saints. We can avoid surprise attacks when we pray constantly and stay in conscious, ongoing communication with God. Praying in the Spirit is not a selfish form of prayer. It involves submitting to the will of God in every situation, praying with all types of prayer. Proper prayer recognizes when to use supplication, intercession, or thanksgiving based on the moment of need. Watching in prayer suggests that our eyes should be open, using our common sense and senses. This helps prevent us from stopping our prayers because our concern remains genuine. Prayer should be our habitual response to every situation. When I pray for all saints, it not only helps others stand but also benefits me. Prayer for others should include those facing difficulties, preachers, and those persecuted for the Gospel.