Devotions

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

THE ENEMY 

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

Paul begins his letter to the Ephesians with important reminders about who they are in Christ. They are adopted, redeemed, forgiven and sealed by the Holy Spirit. In the closing chapter of Paul’s letter, he transitions by reminding these blood-bought followers of Jesus that though their identity is secure, they are in a real spiritual battle. They have an enemy that seeks to take them down. This enemy, the devil, is elsewhere described as a lion who seeks to devour (1 Peter 5:8) and the father of lies (John 8:44). Paul’s point is that these believers need to know who their enemy is and put on the full armor for battle.

We are also in a spiritual battle, whether we recognize it or not. We have an enemy who wants to destroy us. He does not bite or devour our flesh, but he speaks lies that can sink deep into our hearts. This has been his tactic from the very beginning—to plant seeds of doubt and disbelief into the hearts of God’s people. These lies can be about the nature or character of God, ourselves or even the destructiveness of sin. Our responsibility as followers of Jesus is to take every thought captive by identifying lies and turning to the truth.

Make a list of some of the major thoughts you have been thinking lately. Then identify whether these thoughts are lies or the truth. If lies, write out truths from God’s Word that contradict and replace them.

THE BATTLEGROUND 

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. Ephesians 2:1-2

In an opening section of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he warns that there are battlegrounds for their souls. These battlegrounds include the world and the flesh. The world, as Paul refers to it here, is not the tangible, physical world, but the society and system that redefines good and evil and calls it normal. The flesh includes internal desires that get twisted and distorted. It’s about disordered desires and a pressure to conform to the world and its values that are opposed to God. Paul reminds the believers that though they used to live according to the flesh and the world, they have a new identity and way of life found in Jesus.

Much like the Ephesians two thousand years ago, we also face a battle with the world and the flesh. If we don’t actively resist them, we will be conformed to their ways and values. Scripture calls us to be transformed rather than conformed. Instead of assuming the ways of the world or giving into the temptations of the flesh, we should allow God’s Word and ways to direct our hearts and lives. As Paul wrote to the church in Rome, we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Renew your mind through Scripture by memorizing Romans 12:2. As you do, ask God to give you the grace and strength to think and live as he would have you to.

Thursday, April 23, 2026

THE ARMOR

He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak. Isaiah 59:16-17

The prophet Isaiah ministers to Israel roughly eight hundred years before Paul writes his letter to the church in Ephesus. Israel has rebelled against God and is walking contrary to God’s instructions. Isaiah warns them of the coming judgment and exile, which will be fulfilled one hundred years after his ministry. As part of his prophecy, however, Isaiah also describes God as the one going into battle on behalf of his people. Using language that Paul would later borrow in his letter to the Ephesians, Isaiah describes God as donning armor and garments for battle, indicating that God is the true warrior who fights for his people.

Isaiah’s words should remind us today that spiritual strength and victory are not about trying harder, doing better or engaging in a rigorous self-help program. Rather, strength and victory come from looking to Jesus, our true champion, who has already fought on our behalf. We still have responsibility in this fight, which includes putting on the whole armor of God. But we fight the battle from a place of victory, not uncertainty or timidity.

Sing with Thrive Worship & Taylor Gall the “Jesus Song”.  As you are praising God, reflect on the victory and power you have through Jesus, letting him cultivate a joyful and confident heart in you.

Friday, April 24, 2026

THE VICTOR

He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:13b-14

While imprisoned in Rome, Paul writes multiple letters to churches, including the churches in Ephesus and Colossae. These two letters have similar themes and ideas. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul notes the victory that has been won in and through Jesus. Although God’s people were once dead in their sins, they have now been made alive through the victory of Christ—a victory accomplished through Jesus’s life, death on a cross and resurrection from the dead. Through his conquering of the grave, the enemy has been defeated, sins have been forgiven and God’s people have been granted new life.

Jesus’s victory is now our victory. For all those who believe in Christ, we are now heirs with him and co-conquerors. This means that our current spiritual battle occurs under the umbrella of Jesus’s greater victory. The war has already been won. The enemy has been defeated. We can now fight and resist the enemy knowing that his days are numbered and we stand victorious in Christ. The battle may still rage, but we serve a triumphant champion who ushered in the victory.

If you haven’t received this victory and gift of life through Christ, make the decision to do so right now. Pray and ask God to forgive your sins as you place your whole trust and confidence in Jesus. Once you take that step, we would love to hear about it and celebrate with you! Email me at pastormark@RELEVANTchurchMD.com to let me know.

Monday, April 27, 2026

GUARD YOUR HEART

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from
it. Proverbs 4:23

Throughout Scripture, God emphasizes the importance of his
people protecting their hearts. The book of Proverbs is written by King
Solomon, a man who is known for his wisdom yet also has seasons of deep
turmoil. Solomon knows that leaving a heart unguarded leads a person far from
God. It is probable that he writes about guarding the heart because he needs
this message himself. The meaning of “heart” in this verse is the deepest place
of a person—their emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Since the heart is the
central wellspring of a person’s life, guarding it diligently is key to walking
in the fullness God intends.

We would be wise to keep a close watch over
our own hearts as well. “Above all else” alludes to this being a central
component in our walk with God. Later in the Bible, there is urgency as Paul
tells us to protect our hearts and put on the full armor of God. As followers
of Jesus, we are in a battle against good and evil. We need this protective
armor as we go against the deceptive ways of our enemy, Satan. Knowing that the
enemy is the father of lies, we are called to guard our hearts, keeping them
anchored in truth and under God’s protection. This week we will look at the
armor of God and how to put it on in our own lives.

Take time to pray Proverbs 4:23 and commit
it to memory. Use this verse throughout the week as a prayer to ask God to help
you guard your heart.

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

THE BELT

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. Ephesians 6:13-14

Paul writes to the Ephesians with instruction to put on the full
armor of God, and he is intentional about the order each piece is listed. He
begins with the belt of truth to be worn around the waist. This truth, God’s
Word, is critical to withstand the forces of evil. In Paul’s time, the belt
secured a person’s tunic, gathering everything together and providing stability
for daily life and battle. Essentially Paul says they need to be wrapped up and
held by the truth of God, which is a foundation for believers.

The belt of truth is just as important for us today. The more we
know God’s truth, the more effectively we can wear his armor. Rather than
viewing this as a competition to see who knows the most, we can embrace it as a
lifelong journey of knowing God more deeply. This requires intentionality and
time set apart to meditate on his Word. Our attention is constantly pulled by
distractions like social media, TV, sports and packed family schedules, leaving
little room for time in the Bible. We must be grounded in truth so we can
recognize and resist the enemy’s lies.

Pray and ask God to reveal what might
prevent you from growing in knowledge of the Bible. Confess anything he reveals
and ask for strength to build or strengthen habits in his Word.

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

THE BREASTPLATE

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your
waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place. Ephesians 6:14

A Roman soldier heading into battle knows
one exposed chest wound could end everything. The breastplate would be used to
protect his most valuable organs. Paul uses this metaphor to explain the kind
of protection that believers need to withstand the battles of life. The
breastplate of righteousness protects their hearts, the deepest part of a
believer’s spiritual life. Because of Jesus, they are declared both not guilty
and perfectly righteous. This righteousness is not gained because of anything
done on their own, but because of the work of Jesus on the cross and faith in
him (Philippians 3:8-9).

We can also be made right with God when we have faith in Jesus.
Whatever is in our hearts, we’re invited to bring it to Jesus and trust him
with it. We can turn to him with our feelings of shame, fear and
insecurity—whether the shame of a past we can’t undo, the fear that we’ll never
be enough or the insecurity that creeps in when we compare ourselves to others.
Because of Jesus, we no longer stand before God marked by guilt or condemnation
but fully clothed in his righteousness. Our hearts can be comforted in knowing
we are secure, not because of our own abilities but because of Jesus and his
work on the cross.

If you’ve never received the gift of
salvation through Jesus, you can do so right now. Pray and invite him into your
life, receiving his forgiveness through the cross. If you are taking this step
for the first time, please email me at pastormark@RELEVANTchurchMD.com

Thursday, April 30,2026

PUT IT ON

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put
on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the
devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:10-11

Paul urges believers to not merely understand the armor of God,
but to put it on. Earlier in his letter to the Ephesians, he tells them to put
off their old selves and put on their new selves (Eph. 4:22-24).  A soldier would need to dress for battle just
as a believer needs to choose to live differently. Paul calls believers to the
same intentionality. Choosing to follow Jesus renews the mind and reshapes
habits and ways of living. Paul says to turn from behaviors such as lying,
anger and stealing, and to embrace a Christlike posture of kindness,
tenderheartedness and forgiveness (Eph. 4:25-32).

We too can know about the armor but never actually put it on. To
follow Jesus means to protect ourselves with the armor of God. Submitting to
him leads to a life full of joy, peace, meaning and purpose, no matter what
comes our way. We can put on the armor by being generous to a neighbor in need,
donating money to someone experiencing financial troubles or lending a
listening ear to a loved one who is lonely. Wearing the armor is a life that is
obedient to the teachings of Jesus.

Identify an area of your life where Jesus’s
words have become good advice rather than true authority. Confess and ask God
to help you submit to him. Pray this prayer: “God, I want your authority in
____________.”

Friday, May 1, 2026

PRAY IN THE SPIRIT

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers
and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying
for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18

Paul writes to a group of believers in Ephesus who are facing a wide
range of spiritual trials and temptations. As part of his counsel,
he instructs them to put on the full armor of God, which will
enable them to fight spiritual battles and resist the attacks of the
enemy. In the grand conclusion to that armor and defense against
temptation, Paul urges these believers to pray. More specifically, he calls
them to pray “in the Spirit.” Since they have been sealed with God’s
Spirit (Eph. 1:13-14), they are to live and pray according to the leading of
God’s Spirit.

Just like the church in Ephesus two
thousand years ago, we face spiritual battles that require God’s
power through prayer. Praying in the Spirit means depending on the Holy
Spirit to guide us as we pray. The Spirit empowers us
to live and pray as God desires us to—loving others
and always “praying for all the Lord’s people”. As we immerse
ourselves in Scripture, the Spirit aligns our hearts with God’s desires and
prompts us to intercede for fellow believers. This way of
life requires us to prioritize prayer and time in the Word,
allowing the Spirit to transform how we think and pray.

Pray in the Spirit by using God’s
Word to pray for others. Choose a command or promise from Scripture and
turn it into a prayer for someone else. For example, if you choose Hebrews
13:5, you might pray: “Father, please enable ___________ to know your
presence and be content with your provision.”

Tuesday, May 12th

THE SHOES

And with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.  

Ephesians 6:15

Paul continues to describe the armor of God using the imagery of
a Roman soldier’s kit. He understands believers are in a spiritual battle with
a very real enemy. They need to prepare to withstand the barrage of lies and
deception from the devil. Paul first lays a foundation with the belt of truth
and the breastplate of righteousness. Now, he turns to the feet. Believers need
the proper footwear for a successful battle. Paul tells them that sure footing
is possible. This is because the gospel provides cleats that offer stability to
endure war. A believer’s confidence comes from a correct understanding and
receiving of the gospel. It is the good news of Jesus’s sacrificial death that
brings peace with God.

The gospel’s peace extends to us today as well. Though our
circumstances are unpredictable, we can find confidence in the security that
comes from knowing Jesus. Through him we receive the gift of reconciliation,
being justified and restored to relationship with God. In proximity to him,
we’re reminded that we are infinitely loved, valued and secure. This is the
well that nourishes our peace. It is confidence that comes from understanding
our identity as beloved children. We can take the gospel’s peace into every
circumstance and relationship and into our hearts and minds.

Remind yourself of the gospel of peace by listening to the
worship song “Resurrecting”.  Reflect onthese words in particular: 

“The fear that held us now gives way to him who is
our peace; his final breath upon the cross is now alive in me.”

Wednesday, May 13th 2026

THE SHIELD

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which
you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.  

Ephesians 6:16

In ancient warfare, flaming arrows were a common battle tactic.
Roman soldiers would soak their shields in water for protection to douse the
flames of the enemy. Paul has this in mind when he describes how believers are
to live. Faith is the shield that extinguishes Satan’s flaming arrows. Paul
understands that faith is not dependent on the strength believers can muster.
It is secure because of the One their faith is in. Biblical faith involves a
choice to trust God’s goodness, presence, power, and provision.

We often think if our faith is stronger, we can better withstand
the enemy’s tactics. The trap of “should” and “if only” weakens our shield. We
think if only we could do or pray more, we would survive the attacks of the
devil. This approach isn’t gospel-centered faith. It’s a self-focused dead end.
The anchor of our faith isn’t in what we do but in who has already rescued us.
It is in the God who sent his Son to save us. He alone can provide what we need
in our circumstances. It doesn’t mean life will be easy—that the cancer will
disappear, the relationship will resolve or the bill will be paid. It does mean
that we will not be alone because God is with us.

Pray a prayer of faith in God. For example: “Heavenly Father,
give me faith to trust that you are with me. When I experience doubt and fear,
remind me of your power, protection, and goodness. Remind me that you love me
and my forever is secure with you. Amen.”

Thursday, May 14th 2026

THE FORMATION

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of
evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.   Ephesians 6:13a

The book of Ephesians is written to a group of believers. From
the rich, identity-forming gospel truth at the beginning of Paul’s letter to
his instructions at the end, he shares with community in mind. This includes
the armor of God. As Paul unpacks the illustration, he doesn’t envision a
single soldier but a legion. He describes the shield, understanding that one
soldier’s armor alone can’t defend him. He also needs the shield on either side
of him, before and behind him. Roman soldiers had a reputation for great
success on the battlefield. One reason was the way they protected one another.
Believers listening to Paul understand that not only is their own shield
important in spiritual battle, they also need the faith of those around them.

We too need to put on the armor and stand firm alongside other
believers. There will be days when God uses our faith to sustain someone else
or when someone’s faith will protect us. The Christian walk is not a solo
campaign. It is meant to be done together. Following Jesus means a commitment
to growing alongside other believers. It involves a life already in formation
so that when the attacks come, we can help each other stand firm.

Reflect on this question: Who is shielding me, and who am I
shielding? In this season at Relevant Church, a great way to step toward
community and get in formation is to join a small group as well as looking for
opportunities to serve.

Friday, May 15th 2026

THE HELMET

Take the helmet of salvation. Ephesians 6:17a

Protecting one’s head is critical in order to win a war. When
the enemy wages a battle of the mind, the imagery of a helmet has even more
significance. Paul connects the idea of a helmet with the truth of salvation.
To defend against the enemy’s lies, believers need to remember who they are in
Jesus and the cherished truth of their salvation. Paul talks of salvation
throughout his letter to the Ephesians. He reminds them that salvation is not
something they earn or achieve. They receive it through faith (Eph. 2:8-9).

The same is true for us today. To stand firm, we must have a
proper understanding of our relationship with God and our sin. No one can come
to God except through Jesus. It is through our faith in his death and
resurrection that we find justification. The penalty for our sin is paid. Jesus
stands in our place and advocates for us before God. That doesn’t mean we won’t
wrestle with sin, but it does mean we can find freedom from sin’s power. This
good news involves our sanctification. One day we will be glorified and
completely free from the presence of sin. Until then, we can stand secure in
the truth of who we are in Jesus and who we are becoming through God’s power.
This truth is our greatest protection.

If you haven’t put your trust in Jesus yet, you are at risk in
this spiritual battle! Consider making the decision to trust him as Lord and
Savior right now.

Tuesday, May 19th 2026

THE SWORD

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Ephesians 6:17

In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul tells believers to stand firm and put
on the full armor of God. He paints a picture of a soldier dressed for battle.
Most of the armor is for protection, but one piece is different. The sword of
the Spirit is the only offensive weapon. A Roman soldier’s sword is short and
sharp, made for close combat. Paul says a believer’s sword is the Word of God.
It isn’t just ink on a page. The Holy Spirit gives it power. Hebrews 4:12 says God’s Word is living
and active. It is sharp and strong. It reaches deep into hearts and always does
what God intends.

Jesus shows us how to use this weapon. When Satan tempts him in the wilderness, Jesus
answers every lie with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).  He doesn’t argue. He doesn’t panic. He speaks
God’s truth, saying each time, “It is written.” Jesus trusts the promises of
God, and he wins the battle. We face spiritual battles too. The enemy still
uses lies, fear and doubt, but we are not helpless. We have the same weapon as
Jesus. The Holy Spirit helps us remember and apply God’s Word at just the right
time. But we must give the Spirit something to work with. When we read and
memorize Scripture, it takes root in our hearts. Then, when temptation comes, truth
is ready.

TODAY: Let God’s living Word become your sword. Memorize Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is alive and
active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing
soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Wednesday, May 20th 2026

PRAYER

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.

With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Ephesians 6:18

Paul concludes his teaching on the armor of God by showing that prayer is not
separate from the armor—it is how believers stand firm in it. His focus is not
on circumstances but on spiritual watchfulness. To pray “in the Spirit” is to
depend on the Spirit’s guidance and strength, remaining alert in battle. Paul
widens the Ephesians’ vision beyond themselves, calling them to pray on behalf
of all believers. Prayer is the continual posture that activates and sustains
every piece of God’s armor, enabling believers to stand firm together.

Because prayer is central to the Christian life, it is also one of our strongest
weapons in spiritual battle. The Holy Spirit guides us, strengthens us and even
helps us know what to say (Romans 8:26-27). 
In Luke 22, Jesus tells Peter that Satan wants to shake him. But Jesus
says, “I have prayed for you.” Jesus fights for Peter in prayer so that his
faith won’t fail. And when Peter returns, he helps others stay strong. Jesus is
a prayer warrior. We are called to be prayer warriors too. One of the best ways
we can protect others from spiritual attack is to pray for them. Even as we
pray for hard situations to change, we should also pray that God will work in
the middle of them. Prayer is not extra. It is essential.

TODAY: Choose one person to fight for in prayer: “Lord, strengthen
______ today. Guard their faith. Protect them from lies and fear. Give them
courage to follow you. Help them stand firm and trust you in every situation.
Amen.”

Thursday, May 21st 2026

THE GOSPEL

Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me

so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. 

Ephesians 6:19

Paul asks the believers in Ephesus to pray for one specific thing: boldness. He
wants courage to clearly share the gospel message. He writes this while chained
in prison. He doesn’t ask for comfort or freedom. He asks for courage. What is
the message he wants to share? That we were spiritually dead because of sin.
But God, who is rich in mercy and great in love, has made us alive with Christ
by his grace (Ephesians 2:4-5).  The
gospel is not about earning God’s love. It’s about receiving it. Paul calls
himself an ambassador for Christ. An ambassador represents a king in a foreign
place. Paul knows that even in prison, he represents Jesus. Wherever God places
him, that is his mission field.

The same is true for us. If we follow Jesus, we represent him—in our homes, at
work, at school, on our teams and even on social media. We don’t have to be
loud or pushy. We simply need to be faithful and clear. When we share the good
news, God can use our words to change someone’s life. A person who trusts Jesus
receives forgiveness, new life and the full armor of God. Sharing our faith
matters because people matter.

TODAY: Pray for one person who doesn’t know Jesus. Ask God to give you
courage and the right words to share Jesus with them.

Friday, May 22nd 2026

THE ARMOR OF GOD

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

Followers of Jesus have a real enemy. Paul reminds the Ephesian believers to stand firm
when spiritual battles come. God doesn’t leave his people defenseless. He gives
the full armor—belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet and sword. This picture
reminds the early church of a Roman soldier ready for battle. The armor has one
purpose: to enable believers to stand their ground. They are not told to run or
hide, but to stand. Long before them, God himself is pictured as wearing armor
(Isaiah 59:16-17).  The strength they fight with is his strength, not their own.

The Bible tells us our enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. But Jesus comes so
we can have life, full and abundant (John 10:10).  On our own, we’re not able to stand against
spiritual forces, but in the Lord’s power, we can. Every piece of armor points
back to Jesus. Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation and
the Word of God all come from him. These are not human tools. They are
spiritual gifts given to us because we belong to Christ. We fight from victory, not for victory. Because
Jesus died and rose again, sin no longer has the final word. The enemy is real,
but he is not greater than our Savior.

TODAY: Celebrate the victory we have in Jesus. Sing the wonderful song “In
Christ Alone”.

Focus on these words: “And as he stands in victory, sin’s curse has lost its grip on me, for I am his
and he is mine—bought with the precious blood of Christ.”