I often hear from people who tell me, “I have been praying and standing on God’s promises in this situation for such a long time, and nothing is changing! I have done everything I know how to do! Now what?” I can hear the exasperation, desperation, and discouragement in their voice, and my heart goes out to them. I often share with these people what God has shown me when I have been in His “waiting room” myself.

The apostle Paul wrote, “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.” (Ephesians 6:13 NIV) Don’t miss the part that says, “after you have done EVERYTHING…stand.” There will be times when we follow all of God’s instructions to us in a dire situation, and all we are expected to do then is to just hold our ground against the onslaught of Satan and his evil cohorts. We don’t remain idle during these times. We continue to diligently seek the Lord each day through prayer and Scripture reading. We go about our daily business, choosing to put our wholehearted trust in God, and believing that He is often doing His BEST work when He appears to be silent and inactive.

Paul tells us in the verse above that putting on the full armor of God is an important part of standing our ground. I pray through each piece of God’s armor every morning, and I encourage you to do the same. (Ephesians 6:14-17) Paul emphasizes the importance of this strategy. “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (v. 11 NIV) I have heard from people who told me that the difference between putting on God’s armor each day, and failing to do so, was like night and day in their lives. Get in the habit of obeying God in this area, and cooperate with Him for your victory.

Perhaps you are in the battle of your life today, and you are wondering what the Lord is up to. I believe that the Spirit of God is saying to you right now – “Do not be afraid! Take your stand [be firm and confident and undismayed] and see the salvation of the Lord which He will accomplish for you today. The Lord will fight for you while you [only need to] keep silent and remain calm.” (Exodus 14:13,14 AMP) Hallelujah!

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to put on the full Armor of God each day, so that I can take my stand against the devil’s schemes. When I have done everything I know how to do, remind me to stand my ground and allow You to fight my battles for me. Reassure me that You do some of Your BEST work when You seem silent and inactive. Thank You that as I resist fear, self-pity, and discouragement in the face of opposition, I will witness You winning the victory for me!

- J. M. Farro