Chesthair

Now that truth is a normal, everyday part of your life and that you have stopped trying to uncover or discover your own truth you are ready to stand. You are now ready to be an effective force in your world and those that are closest to you.

The second piece you put in place is the breastplate. It’s described as righteousness.

“with the breastplate of righteousness in place…” (vs 14)

A little history; this piece of equipment in the legion is called the Lorica Segmentata, it was constructed of strips of metal fastened together by leather. This was standard issue to the legions during the reign of Augustus. This piece of equipment weighed from 20 to 30 pounds, its design was to protect the vital organs of the legionnaire. The metal was designed to deflect a dart or sword attack, which the shield or sword failed to stop. The goal is to protect the vital organs, from enemy attack.

This parallels the righteous life, when we live a righteous life; our vital organs are protected from enemy attack. For example, the Christian who knows the word of God (Sword of the spirit) and has great faith (shield of faith), but lives an unrighteous life, is open to enemy attack, regardless how well they are able to use the other pieces of equipment. That person has put down the breastplate of righteousness; their vital organs are exposed to the attack of the enemy.

That is why the second item is armor that covers your most vital areas if righteousness and that it connects and rests on the belt of truth. But it’s not your truth and not your righteousness’s that protects you, but that which only comes from God. It is only through what Jesus did that you and I are made right in God’s sight. That is why you and I need to allow God’s truth to convict us of sin, ask for forgiveness so we can be renewed and washed in the righteousness of Christ.

“But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:21-23)