Daily Encouragement

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.”  (Ephesians 6:10, NIV)

That word, “finally,” begins an introduction to the key to success in all of the areas of life previously addressed by Paul in the preceding chapters: How to live for Christ at work, at home, with your children, with your spouse.

This key is not a strength derived from within ourselves; rather, it is a strength derived from God, Whose power — unlike our own — is always sufficient.

Paul used the metaphor of a Roman soldier’s armor kit to introduce the aspects of this “mighty power”: Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the word of God, and the practice of prayer for others. (Vss. 11-20)

Personal disappointments, the unfathomable suffering we witness each day, and the carnage created by senseless violence, challenge the power that is within us.  Nevertheless, continue to live each moment of each day “armored up”!  It is God’s strength with you, for you, and within you.  Furthermore, it is a testimony to those who know not God — and an encouragement to those who do.  – Luther