Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903

The Christian Armor

The apostle says: “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. “Stand therefore, Having your loins girt about with truth, And having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, Wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, And watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Ephesians 6:11-18. PH151 56.3

My brethren, these are the directions given you by God. Let no man complicate or mystify the plain directions given by the highest Authority. Preach the word: speak according to a “Thus saith the Lord,” with all the earnestness of the Holy Spirit. Never remove from your feet the gospel shoes. Be sure to keep them on. Your feet are always to be “shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.” PH151 57.1

Observing carefully every direction that the Lord has specified in regard to the Christian armor, you will walk before Him softly, and will work discreetly. You will not carry with you any yokes to bind men to your plans, nor will you attempt to make the Lord's workers amenable to any finite mind. The maxims and precepts of men are not to control His laborers. Let no man be placed in a position where he can lord it over God's heritage; for this imperils alike the soul of him who rules and the souls of those who are under his rule. PH151 57.2

No man is so advanced in experience that Satan will not assail him with temptation. The more responsible the position a man occupies, the fiercer and more determined are the assaults of the enemy. Let God's servants in every place study His word, looking constantly to Jesus, that they may be changed into His image. Let them not put human wisdom in the place of the wisdom of Him who is the Light of the world, the Sun of Righteousness, our peace and assurance forever. The efficiency and the inexhaustible fulness of Christ are at our command if we will walk before God in humility and contrition. PH151 57.3