1 John 4:4 … we’re of God, we belong to Him, He lives in us… how can we know… for sure? Is His Grace conditional, based on what we do or don’t do? Or, is it a heart thing, a surrender that determines whether or not we belong to Him? Do we desire to do righteousness, not practice sin, do we choose to imitate His character, loving one another. So, it’s settled, we’re His! As we step on the battlefield to meet our enemy, we’re not naked, we’re not without resources and protection. We’ve already put on our Belt of Truth and our Breastplate of Righteousness. We’ve been fitted with the shoes of the Gospel of Peace, and we’re wearing the Helmet of Salvation. Grateful for His protection of our mind from spirits of Doubt, of Discouragement, Self Pity, and Defeat. He then hands us our Shield of Faith and Sword of the Spirit… reminding us our enemy is already defeated, he’s already overcome. The One Who lives in us is greater than he who’s in this world. We step onto the battlefield in confidence as God both leads us and promises to be our rear guard. Fully covered by the armor of God, skillfully, wielding, our sword, we take the victory He’s given us. All along the way we’ve had choices before we take the victory. First is choosing to and knowing we belong to Him. Next is putting on His ’covering’, His armor, knowing His Word is the skill needed to successfully wield the sword. And remembering that our helmet protects us against temptation and the enemy’s ability to twist the truth. Our confidence and strength to fight our enemy doesn’t come from us, it comes from Him. Thank You, Lord, for loving us, for choosing us, for calling us, for delivering us, for redeeming us… for saving us. To You belongs the Dominion and the power and the glory… Forever.