Ephesians 6.14

"With the breastplate of righteousness in place..."

Our second vital selection from the armoury. Vital because it covers the heart. It guards our emotions. It shields us from doubt. We are the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5.21. We are holy and blameless and free to approach him with childlike abandon. Ephesians 3.12. Hebrews 4.16. No one is going to tell us otherwise.

Once we needed another kind of breastplate. Exodus 28.16 - 30. Once it was the high priest who had to carry us to God emblazoned on his chest, a memorial reminder before God, brought into his presence by another and held there before him, a plea for our forgiveness and our cleansing.

And now, oh wonder of wonders, it is God who is held within us. The Holy Spirit testifies to our new position, to our free access, to our sonship. We are righteous. Forever. Oh soul, dare to believe this precious truth this morning. Be overcome with joy when you think on it. Readjust your breastplate today and check your heart is safe.

When Satan tempts me to despair, and tells me of the guilt within, upward I look and see him there, who made an end to ask my sin. Because the sinless savior died, my sinful soul is counted free. For God the just is satisfied to look on him and pardon me.