The belt of truth. The helmet of salvation. The shield of faith. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul tells us to put on the “full armor of God” in order to prepare for spiritual warfare (Eph. 6:10–17). We put on the breastplate of righteousness and shoes that signify “the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace” (v. 15). Note that the only offensive weapon is “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (v. 17). Today’s verse similarly refers to “putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet” (v. 8). As Christians, we should be as ready for action as a soldier, and understand that our faith will lead to conflict with the world and with Satan. This passage also contrasts light and dark or day and night (vv. 7–8). Children of the night live as enemies of God, while we, as children of the light, are to live holy and righteous lives. We should be characterized by attitudes and actions that reflect our true identity. Finally, Paul contrasts drunkenness and sobriety. Drunk people are impaired and out of control. Sober individuals, on the other hand, are able to think clearly and are in control of their choices and actions. The opposite of being drunk is to be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18–20). This is how we’re to live in light of the Second Coming—awake, sober, walking in the light, and spiritually prepared (1 Thess. 5:9–11). This is who God has made and saved us to be. Since our destiny is to “live together with him,” we should live now in such a way as to reflect His purposes and bring glory to His name! >> What might it mean for you and your family to live in accord with God’s redemptive purposes? Reflect and pray over this question in response to today’s devotional.