[The Lord] put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head; he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak (Is 59:17).

In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength (Rev 1:16).

St. Augustine, on Psalm 35: He has armed us with such arms as you have heard, arms admirable, and unconquered, insuperable and shining; spiritual truly and invisible, because we have to fight also against invisible enemies. If you see your enemy, let your arms be seen. We are armed with faith in those things which we see not, and we overthrow enemies whom we see not…

Questions for Prayer and Discussion

1. Paul says to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might (Eph 6:10). This strength is the same strength that raised Jesus from the dead. Ask the Lord how he wants you to experience his strength in your life.
2. Origen suggests that the battlefield in primarily interior. “In you lies the combat you are going to engage, within yourself the structure of evil and sin to pull down… Do you realize the power of this enemy force that advances against you from the depths of your heart?” (Homilies on Joshua, 5). Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal strongholds you need to pull down.
3. Ephesians says, Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil (6:11). The enemy’s tactics are twofold: to intimidate and to insinuate, to use force and fraud. What tactics does the enemy use against you? Where are the holes in your armor and how can you repair them? Prayerfully reflect on how each piece of the spiritual armor can help you.
4. Reflect specifically on the word of God as spiritual armor. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…” (Heb 4:12). How can you grow deeper in the word of God this Lent? How can you wield this sword more effectively?
5. Prayerfully reflect on the virtue of perseverance, of standing strong, of enduring (see Rom 5: 3-6). In what areas does the Lord want to strengthen you so that you can stand strong and resist the advances of the enemy? How might he want you to grow in prayer, in zeal, in the Word of God?

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