During my quiet time last week I came across the following question. Is your family dressed for success before they walk out the door? The author wasn’t talking about wearing the perfect business attire or eye- catching outfit. Instead, she was asking if you’re making sure that your loved ones are prepared with the full armour of God.

Normally this time of year is spent in a flurry of school supplies, backpacks & new sneakers. We decide if our children will pack or buy their lunch. Will they walk, carpool or take the bus? But have you ever taken the time to make sure that your children were prepared for the spiritual battles that await them in the world beyond your home.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 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. 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. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish 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. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. — Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

With that in mind, how are you doing at preparing those you love for the battles ahead? Are they wearing all six pieces?

1. Helmet of Salvation
2. Breastplate of Righteousness
3. Sword of the Spirit
4. Belt of Truth
5. Shoes of Readiness & Peace
6. Shield of Faith.

If not, what can you do to prepare them? These lessons aren’t just for children. They are for all of us. Why not do a study with your small group, write a sermon series, blog about it? The possibilities are endless & the outcome eternal.