LESSON: Armor of God

Breastplate of Righteousness

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place... Ephesians 6:13-14 NIV

NOTE: bold used for my emphasis

The second part of the Roman soldier's armament that Paul describes in Ephesians is the breastplate. The breastplate was a square of bronze worn over the chest under the armor. It's purpose was to guard the heart.

The Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NIV

Have you ever been heart-broken? Your heart literally feels heavy over the loss of a loved one, relationship, opportunity, etc. In the Life Application Bible for Students there is a chart on the armor of God. Next to the breastplate of righteousness it states the following: "Satan often attacks our heart the seat of our emotions, self-worth, and trust."

A perfect biblical individual to study would be David, who is described by God as "a man after His own heart" in 1 Samuel 13:14. David wrote many psalms displaying his love and devotion to God.

• "The Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 25:1)"
• "The Lord is my light and my salvation (Psalm 27:1)"
• "My soul finds rest in God alone (Psalm 62:1)"
• "Whom have I in heaven but you? (Psalm 73:25)"

There is no doubt when reading the psalms that David whole-heartedly loved the Lord. Satan tempted David's emotions (flesh) in an attempt to draw David away from God. David saw Bathsheba and his "heart" went wild. It went so wild, he committed adultery and murder.

Create in me a pure HEART, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10 NIV

When David asked God to create a pure heart and renew his spirit, he want to be righteous. Righteousness is the state of being in a right relationship with God or not standing guilty before God. We must be careful in our spiritual battle to keep our most precious relationship protected. Don't mistaken religion as your breastplate; going to church is not enough. The breastplate must be worn seven days a week.

Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us so our hearts would be pure. The Lord looks at the heart and we can hide nothing from Him. The more time you spend with the Lord, the less chance you will get caught without your breastplate.

Righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Romans 3:22 NIV

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