Wear a Helmet
Open with Prayer:
God, we thank you for this time together, for the technology that makes it possible, and the hearts that connect us. Be with us as we travel, join us in this journey, and help us see and hear you always. Amen.
Intro:
Paul wrote this letter when he was in prison. He was surrounded by Roman guards and probably noticed the armor they wore. Paul thought that the ways God protects us are a lot like armor. Listen to God’s word and hear about the different types of armor Paul mentions.
Read: Ephesians 6:10-20 (Armor of God)
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints. Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.
In many jobs or activities it’s important to have the right gear to protect us. What would happen if a firefighter walked into a burning building without his gear? What would happen to an astronaut without his gear? What would happen if you rode your bike without a helmet or tried to play football without pads?
What other things can you think of that we need protection from?
Just like people do things to protect themselves from harm in their jobs, God has given us certain types of “gear” or tools to protect us from bad things. In the Bible Paul writes that this gear is like the armor of a solider.
What does it mean to be strong?
What does it mean to be strong in God?
What do you think God wants us to do to be strong?
Finish with Prayer:
God, Thank you for being our armor and protector every day.
Thank you for providing us with: (something God has given you)
God today we thank you for: (something or someone you’re grateful for)
God today we need your help with: (something hard or difficult you need to do)
God today please be with: (someone who may be sick, sad, or hurt)
We ask all this in Jesus’ name.
Amen