Ephesians 6:10-23

Contemporary English Version

The Fight against Evil

¹⁰Finally, let the mighty strength of the Lord make you strong. ¹¹^(A) Put on all the armor that God gives, so you can defend yourself against the devil's tricks. ¹²We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world. ¹³So put on all the armor that God gives. Then when that evil day^[a] comes, you will be able to defend yourself. And when the battle is over, you will still be standing firm.

¹⁴^(B)^(C) Be ready! Let the truth be like a belt around your waist, and let God's justice protect you like armor. ¹⁵^(D) Your desire to tell the good news about peace should be like shoes on your feet. ¹⁶Let your faith be like a shield, and you will be able to stop all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷^(E) Let God's saving power be like a helmet, and for a sword use God's message that comes from the Spirit.

¹⁸Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God's people. ¹⁹Pray that I will be given the message to speak and that I may fearlessly explain the mystery about the good news. ²⁰I was sent to do this work, and this is the reason I am in jail. So pray that I will be brave and will speak as I should.

Final Greetings

^21-22^(F) I want you to know how I am getting along and what I am doing. This is why I am sending Tychicus to you. He is a dear friend, as well as a faithful servant of the Lord. He will tell you how I am doing, and he will cheer you up.

²³I pray that God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ will give peace, love, and faith to every follower!

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