Ephesians 6:11 (NIV)

Ephesians 6:11 (NIV) says:

> “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

💡 Meaning and Teaching

This verse is a call for spiritual readiness and defense. Paul uses the imagery of armor to help believers understand that the Christian life involves spiritual warfare — not physical battles, but struggles against temptation, evil influences, and the deceptive tactics of the devil.

Here’s what it teaches:

1. “Put on the full armor of God” –
This means to equip yourself completely with God’s truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word (which Paul lists in verses 13–17). A believer must be spiritually prepared in every area, not just partially protected.

2. “So that you can take your stand” –
The goal is not to retreat or give in, but to stand firm in faith, integrity, and obedience even when challenged by evil or temptation.

3. “Against the devil’s schemes” –
The devil uses deception, doubt, fear, pride, and discouragement to weaken believers. God’s armor helps us recognize and resist these attacks.

✝️ In essence

Ephesians 6:11 teaches that believers must stay spiritually strong and alert, relying on God’s power and truth to resist evil influences and remain faithful in their walk with Christ.