The Breastplate Of Righteousness

When you go to prayer, you are entering the arena of spiritual warfare.  You will come under attack.  Therefore, you need all the armor of God to protect you (the defensive armor) and the sword of the Spirit (your offensive armor) to win the battle.

Police in most nations are given a bullet-proof vest.  If shot by a low-caliber pistol, the vest stops the bullet from injuring or killing the policeman. 

In ancient times, the threat was from rocks, spears or sword.  The breastplate provided protection to the upper torso of the warrior.  The breastplate of righteousness does the same thing for all today.  It provides protection in the battle we wage against sin and Satan.

The "breastplate of righteousness" is an important part of our spiritual armor.  It protects and covers our heart (emotions and affections).  Both need to be guarded if we are to fend off the temptations of the wicked one.

There are two concepts of righteousness relating to our breastplate; one is the right standing (imputed righteousness).  It is the goodness of His character, which becomes ours in Christ Jesus when we believe.  It is a gift of His grace, "imputed" (credited to our account) when we put our faith in Christ as Lord and Saviour.

The other is that He imparts (places) His righteous nature within us.  By the enabling power of His Holy Spirit, God wants us to express or live a righteous life.



Rev Dr. Ronnie Ng