Dear church,

If there is a time for armor, it might be today. We live in a season of what some have called “birth pangs.” That is, it seems as if something new is coming, and the world is straining in anticipation of it.

There is no question it is a difficult time, both globally and nationally. One crisis after another has emerged.

The global pandemic has put fear into the hearts of many people, and it’s put anger and distrust into the hearts of others. The pandemic has been followed by economic turmoil. Businesses have closed, workers have been laid off or furloughed, and we have entered into a season of financial uncertainty. What will the stock market do next year? What about the job market or the availability of needed goods – beyond just toilet paper?

Meanwhile, our country is facing social unrest. The issue of racial injustice is back on the front pages and in the streets. Again, this has put fear into the hearts of many people and anger and distrust into the hearts of others. And all the while, the country is observing perhaps the most contentious election season in our lifetimes. The very foundations of our nation, at times, seem as if they are wobbling.

And so if there is a time for armor, it is today – in this era of fear and divisiveness and uncertainty. The Christian has that armor available – the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of readiness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.

We have a gospel of peace. We need not fear the flaming darts of the evil one. We have the word of God. And we can pray.

This armor is at our disposal. It is what makes Christians so different in this time of strife. We may walk confidently. We are not deceived by the world. Rather, we speak the truth. And we are ready for whatever may come – not fearful, because the Lord’s will for our lives is ultimate peace.

And so we can have that peace today. Put on the whole armor of God.

Chris