Paul encourages the Ephesians to “put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the Devil” (6:11). What are the tactics of the Devil? Ignatius reminds us that, ultimately, the Devil seeks to make us choose badly. He wishes to rush our decisions so that we do not have time to let the dust settle and the truth emerge. He wishes to make us despair, so that we think we are beyond God’s help. He wishes to make us ashamed to admit our weaknesses, so that we do not take comfort in the strength of the whole Church.
When we see this, we can begin to see what the armor of God truly is. It is the patience that allows us to sift false promises from truth. It is the hope that reminds us our powerful God has not abandoned us. It is the humble love that gives us the strength to turn to our brothers and sisters and Christ, defeating the Devil as one Church. Consider all those things you need in order to choose well and serve the Lord. This is what the Devil wishes to deprive you of. Hold on to God’s armor, choose well, and serve the Lord.