Breastplate of Righteousness

Paul teaches us about God's grace and how to respond - in the church, in our spirit and conduct, and in all relationships. But we will be challenged by Satan and need to use the armour God has provided. We must be committed to truth; that is basic. We also need the protection of righteousness - like the Roman soldiers' breastplate that covered their vital organs. But what is 'righteousness' in this context. It is not what some people think it means and rightly condemn, self-righteousness. It refers to the record of our life before God, and also to personal integrity. A basic Bible teaching is that Christ's record sheet can be transferred to us, just as our sin can be imputed to him. Knowing that we are righteous in him gives us confidence in spiritual battles. When we are tempted to rely on experiences, or on feelings, we become vulnerable to Satan; only by relying on Christ's righteousness are we protected. Christ's righteousness also answers any accusation he makes about us in the court of heaven (Zechariah 3:1-5; 1 John 2:1). This faith in Christ and his righteousness must be genuine - personal integrity is vital. A double-minded man can always be swayed by Satan if the threat or promise is enough. We must be like Job, whose refused to curse God in his troubles, and thereby defeated the enemy.