Doing What Is Right

We are looking these days at tools God gives us, known as the Armour of God, so we can stand strong.

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:13

Last time we spoke about the “belt of truth” – knowing what is true and filling our minds with that.  Today we shift the focus from knowing the truth to actually doing it.  The piece of armour associated with this is the breastplate of righteousness.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place. Ephesians 6:14

The most important parts of our bodies like the heart and lungs are protected with this breastplate and it keep us from what would probably  be instant death if we were attacked. Jesus taught that actually doing the will of God brings us the blessing of God.

Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. Psalm 106:3

Too often our self-centered sinful nature is more focused on what we want and what will make us feel good than on whether or not we are pleasing God.  Over and over again Jesus taught us not to just know the truth but to actually put it into practice.

So, how are we meant to put on the breastplate of righteousness? We ask God to show us truth, as we spoke last time.  In addition to this, we ask God to empower us to resist walking after our own desires and instead in all our decisions and actions choose to follow God’s ways. 

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.  2 Timothy 3:16-17

To be wearing the breastplate of righteousness as God intends we don’t just talk the talk but we actually walk the walk.  We don’t just wait and hope we react well when we are tempted to do wrong but we actively seek to know and do what God has planned for us.

Heavenly Father, You didn’t wait for us to get things right in our own minds and hearts before You made a way, through Jesus, for us to be forgiven and made new.  We thank You for a new way of life that is rich and satisfying.

Help us to move away from our old habits of seeking our own convenience or pleasure and instead seek to know what Your heart is for us in this day and then be busy giving ourselves to doing that.  Amen

Let’s put on that breastplate of righteousness today and do all the good things God has in mind for us to do.  We’ll enjoy the day and our world will be better because we did.