The Whole Armor of God

The Whole Armor of God

Therefore take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoe for your feet having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.  In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;  and take the helmet of salvation, and take the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.  Ephesians 6:13-17

“Having put on” - Once for all-Always On:

• Belt of Truth:  The Roman soldier wore a loose-fitting tunic.  Since ancient combat was largely hand-to-hand, loose-fitting clothing like the tunic could be a hindrance and danger.  A belt cinched up the loose material keeping it out of the way.  The belt that pulls together all the spiritual loose ends is “truth” or, better, “truthfulness.” 
• Breastplate of Righteousness:  A tough, sleeveless piece of leather or heavy material covered the soldiers full torso, protecting his heart and vital organs. Because righteousness, or holiness, is such a distinctive characteristic of God Himself, that is the Christian's chief protection against wicked schemes of Satan.
• Boots of the Gospel:  The boots the Roman soldiers word in battle had spikes or nails in the soles to help them keep from slipping while pressing their battle campaign.  The true Gospel of peace pertains to the Good News that through Christ believers are secure and at peace.  He is on their side. 
• Shield of Faith:  The Greek word usually refers to the large shield that protected the soldier's entire body and could be lifted up to block the arrows coming down from the enemy.  The believer's continual trust in God's Word and promise is “above all” absolutely necessary in all circumstances to protect Christians from temptations to every type of sin. 
• Helmet of Salvation: The helmet protected the soldiers head, always a major target in battle.  This passage is speaking to those who are already saved; therefore it does not refer to attaining salvation.  Rather since Satan seeks to destroy a believers assurance of salvation with is weapons of doubt and discouragement, the believer must be as conscious of one's confident status in Christ as being aware of a helmet on the head.  
• Sword of the Spirit:  A sword was the ordinary foot soldiers' only weapon.  In the same way God's Word is the only weapon that a believer needs in battle against evil and wickedness. It is infinitely more powerful than any of Satan's devices when used properly and correctly.