Today, I continue my more
in-depth look at Paul’s discussion of God’s armor by examining “the breastplate of righteous.”

To me, the breastplate is particularly important because it protected the soldiers vital organs including the heart. In Paul’s day, the breastplate was made out of chain-mail to prevent a sword or spear from piercing the soldiers chest. In reality the breastplate was the difference between life and death for the Roman soldier.

When we consider that righteousness means “right standing with God,” we can understand Paul’s use of the breastplate metaphor for protecting our heart spiritually.

Righteousness as two components: the gift of righteousness bestowed on us through faith in Christ, whose sacrifice redeemed us from sin and death and the transformed life that is the response to the gift.

Keeping the breastplate in good repair has more to do with the second component. A life transformed means acting with mercy, speaking truthfully, caring for the vulnerable, and pursuing moral integrity. Striving for these actions protects our heart from selfishness, temptation, and fleshly desires. When the enemy attacks us our breastplate stops him if it’s in good repair.

As believers, we have the gift of righteousness, but we have to keep it in good repair.

What part of your daily routine could represent ensuring your breastplate is in good repair?

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