Prayer is the way we stay connected with God in the heat of battle.

The sword of the Spirit is our only offensive weapon by which we counter the enemy's attacks.

The Christian's helmet is the sure hope of his or her salvation in Christ.

The shield of faith is our defense against the Devil's attempts to undermine the character of God and our obedience to him in love.

The shoes of gospel peace help us stand our ground when assaulted by the enemy and prepare us to take the gospel to a world in need.

God equips us with the breastplate of righteousness so that we may stand firm against enemy accusations.

Standing firm against the enemy means having the truths of God's word fastened to our heart through the work of God's Son.

Because the enemy wants to steal the riches God has granted us in Christ, we must prepare to stand firm against him in the strength of the Lord's might and dressed in the whole armor of God.

God’s people are to seek the good of the people around them, while committed to the difficult truth of God’s Word and hoping in God’s promise for full blessings in the future.

John shows us that doubt can keep us from the hope of God at Advent.