Own Your Armor: Living Ready for the Spiritual Battle

Guest Speaker Daniel Hammonds preaches about Ephesians 6 in sermon "Own Your Armor"

When you’re getting ready for a big event, you don’t just throw on whatever’s closest in the closet. You put thought into what you’re wearing. I’ve worn suits to weddings, athletic gear to play pickleball, and even costumes when I was in The Wiz. The right outfit matters for the right occasion.

But here’s the question: if we put so much effort into dressing for everyday life, how much more important is it to dress for the spiritual battles we face every single day?

Own Your Armor: The Real Battle We’re In

Ephesians 6:10-12 says:

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Paul reminds us that life isn’t just about what we can see. Our fight isn’t with people, circumstances, or what’s visible—it’s against spiritual forces that want to pull us away from God.

Think about it: how foolish would it be to show up to a battlefield with no protection? That’s why Paul uses the image of a Roman soldier’s armor, something he saw daily while under house arrest in Rome. He’s telling us: Know the battlefield you’re on, and dress appropriately.

God provides the armor—but it’s up to us to actually put it on.

The Armor of God Explained

Ephesians 6:13-17 lays out each piece of the armor:

• The belt of truth

• The breastplate of righteousness

• The gospel of peace on our feet

• The shield of faith

• The helmet of salvation

• The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God

Each piece has a purpose. Each piece protects us in a unique way. But none of it works if we leave it hanging in the closet. We have to intentionally choose to wear it.

So, let me ask: What spiritual armor are you putting on today?

The Confidence Armor Brings

There’s nothing like the confidence that comes from wearing a great outfit. When you’re comfortable, maybe even getting a few compliments, you walk a little taller.

It’s the same with God’s armor. When we put it on, we gain a new kind of security and confidence—not in ourselves, but in who God is and what He equips us to do.

2 Timothy 3:16 says that God’s Word equips us, making us “ready for every good work.” When we’re dressed in His armor, we can step boldly into the life He’s calling us to live. And just as importantly, we’re protected from “the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

Make no mistake: Satan looks for every chance to attack—during transitions, blessings, hardships, or even distractions. But God, in His wisdom, already gave us what we need to stand strong.

Choosing to Equip Yourself

One thing I’ve learned is how much effort I’ll put into not being underdressed for an event. I’ll ask what the dress code is, call friends to make sure I’ve got it right, even plan colors around baby showers and graduations.

But do I put the same energy into being spiritually prepared each day? That’s the question I had to ask myself—and the same one I’ll ask you: Are you equipping yourself with the full armor of God, daily?

Because at the end of the day, it’s a choice. God provides the armor. We choose whether to wear it.

Prayer, Communion, and the Ongoing Battle

Paul closes out his letter in Ephesians 6:18-20 with a reminder to pray continually:

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Even Paul, in chains, asked for prayer that he might keep boldly proclaiming the gospel. Jesus also reminded His disciples that this life is a spiritual war.

That’s why communion matters so deeply. Each week, we remember Christ’s sacrifice and recommit ourselves to putting on the armor of God. Because the good news of the gospel is this: even though the battle is real, the victory is already won through Jesus.

So today I’ll leave you with this: What spiritual armor are you choosing to wear?

God has already given it to you. Now it’s your move.

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👉 If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs the reminder that they don’t have to fight unprotected. God’s armor is available to every believer willing to put it on.

Watch "Own Your Armor" on Youtube: https://youtu.be/lDwCG6B_JxM

Listen to "Own Your Armor" on The Vessel Church Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RDmSUcDVqcqUpfiV0KyHY?si=b0dd6cce26dc4aa3