By now you’ve probably read or heard the news about the Tampa mega church pastor who was arrested for holding services amid the virus outbreak. I’m not writing to criticize anyone, but I don’t think that this particular approach to fighting back was a very wise strategy. I believe that as followers of Jesus we should fight back, but I’d like to share a completely different approach. First, and as I’ve said repeatedly, we should listen to the guidelines issued by the medical experts and those who have been chosen to lead our communities. And second, I think we should employ the instructions the Apostle Paul wrote in chapter six of the Book of Ephesians: 

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. – Ephesians 6:14-18 NIV

• The Belt of Truth – The belt is meant to keep our clothes from falling off. Jesus said I am the way, the TRUTH, and life. The truth is not merely something it’s someone, and we should wrap the truth tightly around our waists by not just listening to Jesus’ words but by applying them. 

• The Breastplate of Righteousness – The breastplate is meant to guard our heart and other vital organs. Our righteousness is not the product of our good deeds but rather the product of Jesus’ good deeds. Cover yourself with Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, this way when the devil accuses you, his accusations will not penetrate your heart. 

• The Shoes of the Gospel – The feet are indicative of the direction we’re walking in. We should have our feet fitted with the shoes of the Gospel, so that every day we’re seeking who to share the good news of Jesus with.  

• The Shield of faith – Faith is the belief that God is who He says He is, and that He will do exactly what He said He will do. And God has said that in the context of bringing the good news, that we would be attacked but not to worry because he will be with us always. 

• The Helmet of Salvation – The helmet is meant to protect our head, where our thoughts, beliefs and emotions are processed. When we’re secure in our salvation, we know that our helmet is impenetrable. We place on the helmet as we read and meditate daily on God’s saving grace. 

• The Sword of the Spirit – The sword of the Spirit is the only offensive weapon in the armor, and the sword represents the written word of God. And it is through the application of the instructions in God’s Word in any and all areas, that we attain both external and internal victories in our lives. 

• Continual Prayer – It is through prayer that we invite God to lead and protect us in every battle.