The Belt of Truth
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and the power of his might. Put on the armor of God that ye may be able to stand against the devil's wiles. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" Ephesians 6:10-12
The armor of God is an appropriate way to end the book of Ephesians. Paul tells us that if you are a Christian, as defined in chapters 1-3, and if you are living as a Christian should live, as determined by chapters 4-6, you will come under spiritual attack. It is impossible to live in the manner Paul described without conflict that the enemy would like to take advantage in our lives. Thus, the final thing Paul tells us is to be strong in the Lord and put on the armor of God.
The first piece of armor is the Belt of Truth, which is crucial in spiritual warfare. 'Stand therefore, having your loins girt with truth…' Ephesians 6:14. Since a significant part of ancient combat was hand-to-hand, a loose tunic would be a hindrance and even a danger. Before battle, the tunic was carefully cinched up and tucked into the heavy leather belt that girded (restrained) the soldier's loins. Similarly, the belt of Truth restrains us from the lies and deceptions of the enemy, enabling us to stand firm in our faith.
God's belt of Truth ties it all together, demonstrating that the believer is ready for battle. The Greek word for Truth refers to the accuracy of Truth or the quality of a truthful attitude in thinking and speaking.
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 1:13
Consider five important ways for using the belt of Truth:
1. Since Satan is a liar (John 8:44), your belt of Truth is constantly under attack, taking one or more forms:
Lies about the character of God.
Deception about who you are in Christ.
Lies that promote fear regarding life's future direction.
Temptation to sin.
2. Seek the Truth in close relationship and dependence on the person of Truth – Jesus Christ. "Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and truth, and the life. No one comes to Father except through me." John 14:6
3. Read, study, and apply the Scriptures, letting the Word of Truth sanctify your life daily. "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." John 17:17
4. Submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit – The Spirit of Truth. "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." John 16:13
5. Resist the enemy by choosing, knowing, and standing in Truth. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7