The image of armour is used in Ephesians because in what was understood as a battle between good and evil, this is possibly what would have come to mind first. Standing firm also involves the strength and empowerment of the Holy Spirit which we receive through faith and prayer, and the strength and encouragement of one another. We confess, O God, our involvement with evil influences of our present age. Those influences which lower the standard of people's lives and which damage their ability to experience lives shaped and filled with love, justice and mercy. People suffer today when they believe that love has to be earned or when they have come to believe that their value rests solely in terms of what they can produce or what they do.
People suffer today when they are denied work or acceptance because of their race or appearance.
This we pray in Jesus' name. Rejoice in the assurance that Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, hears us and forgives us. Page 157 in Be our Freedom, Lord . Gracious God - you hold us firm through the power of your Spirit ,and in Jesus you make clear that you withhold nothing from us. You offer us strength to withstand all that threatens to weaken our faith and our witness.