Weekly Devotion January 6 2025

This Devotion was written by Sportsmen Devotional and posted with permission

Bible Study Verse: Ephesians 6:10-17 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 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. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV©) 

Thoughts: When I’m teaching a handgun class or hosting a sight in day/family fun shoot, it is required that participants and those watching wear both eye and hearing protection. Not only is it a range requirement, it’s my policy that the individuals on site obey the range rule. It is for their own good by protecting their vision and hearing. 

Action Point: Paul wrote in no uncertain terms that our battles aren’t with flesh and blood, but with evil powers. Paul also tells us how to deal with these evil entities, by putting on the armor that God has provided us through our faith in Him. Paul goes on to describe the armor so we will know clearly how to dress for the battles we will face. And, notice the last two words of verse 13, the ones after the comma. Why do we put on the armor? In order to stand our ground against Satan and his demons. I often hear people read this verse incorrectly by ignoring the comma. But, when read correctly, the passage tells us what we are to do when facing the battles that will inevitably come our way. Put on the armor God, stand on God’s promises, and He will give you the victory. 

Sportsmen’s Tip of the Day: Always wear eye and ear protection when practicing with your firearm. Permanent damage to your eyes and ears can occur if you ignore this rule.