Connect:
- Have you ever had to wear a piece of armour such as a helmet or belt in a sport or other application? What was it like?
Discuss:
- Why might some scoff at this passage about warfare and our enemy? How would you respond?
- Where have you quietly accepted defeat and begun calling it normal Christianity?
- Consider the individual pieces of armour. Belt of truth – What lie are you currently tempted to believe? Breastplate of Righteousness – If someone examined your life, in what areas would they see a growing resemblance to Jesus? Feet fitted – In what relationship is God calling you to be a peacemaker instead of a scorekeeper? Shield of Faith – How have you confused cynicism with wisdom? Helmet of Salvation – What most often defines your identity? Sword of the Spirit – What truth from God’s Word do you need to speak over your life today?
- Are you fighting FOR victory or fighting FROM victory? What is the difference between these two positions?
- Do you have brothers and sisters who know your struggles, pray for you, encourage you, and help you stand? If so, where do you need them to help you stand firm? How can you show your thanks to them for standing with you?
Pray:
- Take some time to share prayer requests. After each person shares, take a minute to listen to Holy Spirit. Then pray as Holy Spirit leads you, including what was shared in the questions above.