Life Plan Devotion #83 [God's Armor--Helmet of Salvation, Part I]

Ephesians 6:11 tells us the purpose of "the full armor of God," which is "so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." We have looked at these pieces of holy armor: 1) the Belt of Truth, 2) the Breastplate of Righteousness, 3) the Gospel of Peace Shoes, and 4) the Shield of Faith. Today, let's begin to look at the fifth piece of God-gifted armor, the Helmet of Salvation.
Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary defines "salvation" several ways. No doubt, when you hear/read the word "salvation," you think of something like this definition: "In the New Testament, [salvation] is specially used with reference to the great deliverance from the guilt and the pollution of sin, wrought by Jesus Christ, 'the great salvation' (Hebrews 2:3)."
While the redemptive and regenerative aspects of salvation is not the total meaning of the Helmet of Salvation, it is what makes one a soldier of Christ and the reason one is given the Armor of God. Salvation is a most important topic, and your answer to the question, "What will I do with Jesus?" will affect your life, both now and for all eternity.
Salvation, in regard to the verses we will look at today, comes from the Greek soteria, while means "to rescue, deliver, save." Luke 19:10 tells us that Jesus "came to seek and to save what was lost" [you and me]. Acts 4:12 says that "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
Jesus came to earth for the express purpose of dying for the sins (past, present, and future) of all mankind. You will know where you are, concerning salvation, based on your reaction to the gospel, "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (I Corinthians 1:18).
There are two basic, true markers of one who has said "yes" to salvation. First of all, one believes with one's heart. Secondly, one confesses one's salvation (Romans 10:10). One is saved by grace, through faith, not from works, although good works should follow (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Salvation is a gift of God's mercy (Titus 3:5), but one must receive it. It is a gift that is meant to be given away, as well. The message of salvation must be shared with others. It's the believer's responsibility and carries great blessing, both for the one who shares and for the one who hears the message. James 5:20 tells us that "Whoever turns a sinner away from his error will save him from death and cover a multitude of sins."
Salvation qualifies you for the Helmet of Salvation, along with every other piece of the Armor of God. Have you been saved? You're not promised tomorrow. Have you put the Helmet on? You need its protection. Have you passed along the good news of salvation? You may be the last person to speak to someone, before he/she enters eternity. Don't miss the opportunity.

II Corinthians 7:10 [NIV]
"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret..."

What this has to do with weight loss: There is a difference between "sorrow" and "godly sorrow," not only with respect to salvation but also with one's weight-loss journey. If you are merely "sorry" for allowing yourself to become obese, you haven't gotten to the place of "godly sorrow," which leads to true repentance. How will you know you've reached the latter stage? You'll not just be sorry, you will be different.

Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, my decision to accept the gift of salvation through Jesus is most important, with eternal consequences. May I allow it to change me and never take it for granted. May I share its news with others. Thank You for the Helmet of Salvation, which comes to me the moment I say "yes" to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Go forth today, receiving the Helmet of Salvation based on salvation.