By Drake Hunter | Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
During my military career, while on a special task force, I needed to qualify in “high ropes” to master rappelling from skyscrapers, steep mountains or any necessary situation.
The training was rigorous in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, especially since I feared heights. Upon our arrival for training, we were introduced to the life-saving tools we would rely on. Many skills were taught and refined during this demanding experience.
One particular lesson stood out — whenever a student froze or panicked high in the air, the instructor would shout confidently and with authority, “TRUST YOUR EQUIPMENT!”
Most Christians are familiar with the Apostle Paul’s description of God’s Armor, referred to as “The Armor of God,” in his Letter to the Ephesians (Eph 6:13-18). While they can often recite its components, their understanding of this powerful spiritual armor tends to stop there.
However, this armor is not just a concept; it’s a transformative force. It’s essential to change this, learn about it, and trust it to restore God’s order and enjoy the benefits of His divine strength, individually and collectively. Once we accurately know and comprehend these tools, the best advice I can offer during moments of fear and panic in reality is, “TRUST YOUR EQUIPMENT!”
The Armor of God consists of six elements: the Helmet of Salvation, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Belt of Truth, the Shoes of Readiness, the Shield of Faith, and the Sword of the Spirit. Prayer is a significant aspect of this Armor; it is like the invisible thread that connects and empowers all the other components.
Although it may not resemble traditional gear, it empowers it to fulfill its purpose and responsibilities. Like my rappelling experience, each element must be learned, understood and trusted, if Christian leaders and God’s army wish to triumph in life’s battles. The crucial factor is learning and courageously applying the Armor of God.
To support this, I will share practical insights throughout the year that reflect the Apostle Paul’s intent, character, abilities and history connected to Jesus to enhance understanding. Please trust me as your guide on this exciting journey of learning the essentials of the mature Christian life and becoming the leader this world needs. By the end of this leadership series, you’ll embody the vivid imagery Paul expresses in his symbolic writings, which I referenced in our previous discussion.
As we embark on this journey together, I encourage you to strengthen your trust in God’s requirements and strength. In the coming year, you’ll develop the confidence and skills to effectively put the whole Armor of God on and stand firm as a leader in all aspects of life.
Remember, this is not merely a metaphor — it represents the truth and path of life to overcome the challenges life brings to get you to God’s good reality: His Promised Land, His Kingdom. Trusting in God’s provision and power will always lead you to victory through Jesus in the Lord’s Army.
Take the first step today. Reflect on why the Armor is essential in your reality and envision what it means to stand fully equipped with all the armor and gear necessary to reach your God-given potential. Pray for God to guide you in applying it to your current life stage. Together, let’s become the brave and triumphant warriors Paul envisioned, standing firm in God’s truth and fulfilling His divine mission, now and always. From there: “TRUST YOUR EQUIPMENT!”
Until next time, the intro to the Helmet of Salvation and its various panels that make it up.