As he continues to counsel the Ephesians through the praxis of spiritual warfare, today they are encouraged to
“Stand firm therefore, by fastening the belt of truth around your waist, by putting on the breastplate of righteousness…”
(Ephesians 6.14, NET)
Painting a picture with words of the first century Roman soldier, the image would have been instantly understandable to the Ephesians. As a soldier prepared for battle by fitting himself with certain tools and attire, so too the believer going into the spiritual battle should do.
The idea that we fasten truth around ourselves (the extra context of ‘the belt of‘ is supplied in English) and have righteousness to protect ourselves speaks to the Word of God and the righteousness found in Jesus being that on which we stand firm. We possess no inherent resource on which to stand firm against spiritual warfare (v.11). It is only by taking up the truths of His Word and only by standing firm in the righteousness found by faith in Jesus (1 Corinthians 1.30, 2 Corinthians 5.21) that we have victory.
When things are falling apart around you, when trial or temptation strike, turn to God’s Word ([fasten] the belt of truth around your waist) for guidance, instruction, and encouragement. As you do, trust that you are protected and can indeed stand firm…against the schemes of the devil because of the right standing (the breastplate of righteousness) you have with Almighty God through your faith in His Son.
James Travis 