Wearing Your Spiritual Armor

Related Scripture:

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes”

Ephesians 6: 10-11

Officiating football requires discipline, integrity, teamwork, and the ability to make tough decisions under pressure.  These principles squarely align with the teachings from the apostle St. Paul in the Book of Ephesians. In preparing for the upcoming football season, Ephesians offers guidance for both spiritual growth and professional conduct on the field.

In the featured passage, Paul tells us to physically equip ourselves with an “armor.” Our armor on game day might signify the full uniform, whistle, and yellow flag.  Yet the only “armor” we need is with God through his truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, and the Word.  This is mirrored in our preparation through mechanics and rules study, game film analysis, maintaining physical fitness, and staying mentally sharp. These tools help us stand firm in the inevitable face of criticism, pressure, and the fast-paced chaos of the game.

Ephesians also emphasizes unity and maturity in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:1-16). On the field, officials must work together in harmony, communicating clearly, and trusting one another to fulfill their roles. Like the Church, our effectiveness depends on each member’s dedication to the collective mission.

Finally, Ephesians calls us to live with integrity (Ephesians 5:8-10), which speaks directly to the impartiality and honesty required of any good official. As we enter this new season in just a few short months, strive not just to enforce the rules, but to model the values of fairness, respect, and integrity that Ephesians calls all believers of Christ to uphold.

Questions to Ponder:

How are you developing your “armor” to prepare for the upcoming season? 

Are you strengthening your relationship with Christ as you prepare for the difficulties to come?

Don Monroe - Simsbury, Connecticut