Armor of God - Part 2 - Belt of Truth

The first piece of the Armor of God is the Belt of Truth. But this is no modern day belt. In Roman armor, the belt, known as the "cingulum" or "balteus," served both practical and symbolic purposes. The belt was used to secure and support the soldier’s armor, particularly the "lorica" (the body armor). It also provided a way to carry essential gear, such as the soldier's sword (gladius) or dagger (pugio). The belt often had metal fittings and attachments to hold these weapons securely. The belt also sometimes featured decorative and functional metal plates or studs that could offer additional protection to the lower abdomen and hips.

The belt was a key symbol of a Roman soldier’s status. It signified that the wearer was a soldier, not a civilian. The specific design and decoration of the belt could indicate the rank and unit of the soldier. The belt also symbolized the discipline and readiness of the soldier. To be "belted" was to be ready for action, and it was worn at all times as a mark of a soldier's duty.

How does this apply in a spiritual sense? Paul calls it the Belt of Truth. Truth literally holds everything else together. Without truth as a starting point, everything else falls apart and has no support. It also protects us. Without truth, we wouldn’t be able to determine what is false. As Christians, when we speak and live the truth, it doesn’t go unnoticed by other people. It takes discipline to keep ourselves in the truth of God’s Word and live a life reflective of that. Just like a Roman soldier, we must keep Truth with us at all times. Truth is found in Jesus Christ who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.