The Armor of God: The Breastplate of Righteousness

 


As we continue our exploration of the Armor of God, today’s discussion is about the Breastplate of Righteousness. Just as the breastplate protects a soldier, the breastplate of righteousness shields our hearts and souls in the spiritual battles we face daily.

The Construction and Function of the Breastplate and Turnout Coat

The Roman breastplate was made of bronze or iron. It was a symbol of strength and identity for a soldier. It was built to fit snugly around the torso, providing protection to vital organs like the heart and lungs, while still allowing for movement in battle. This piece of armor served not only as a shield against physical attacks but also as a representation of the soldier's commitment to their cause. Soilders we easily recognized by this breastplate; representative to their righteousness.

Similarly, firefighters wear turnout coats designed with multiple layers, combining flame-resistant materials and waterproof barriers to protect them from extreme heat, smoke, and hazardous conditions. Just as the breastplate was essential for a soldier's survival, the turnout coat is crucial for a firefighter’s safety while facing the chaos of a fire scene. Both pieces of gear symbolize a commitment to a greater purpose; protection and service to others.

Understanding Righteousness

Righteousness, based on the original Greek word dikaiosyne, has three meanings Justness, Correctness & Right Relationship. This encompasses the idea of being in right standing with God. It signifies not just moral correctness but having a relationship that aligns with God's standards and character. This righteousness is rooted in justice, virtue, and the ethical requirements that God has established in the Bible. It is a complete lifestyle that seeks to honor God in thoughts, actions, and relationships, emphasizing that true righteousness is a gift from God through faith nd not just our own effort.

Righteousness, at its core, is a reflection of God’s character. In Isaiah 45:21-24, it says God is completely righteous, and that we cannot attain righteousness on our own. We can only become righteous through Him. Isaiah 64:6 says that our best efforts are like “filthy rags” in comparison to God’s holiness. Our human nature often leads us away from righteousness, as Paul says in Romans 3:10-18. Righteousness is not something we can earn through works, but only thought complete faith and trust in God. Romans 4:18-25. A breastplate is only effective if the solider trusts it to stop the arrows. The battle cannot be fought if he runs away afraid. There has to be faith. The Shield of Faith,  and The Sword of the Spirit which will get discussed in later blogs, aids in this faith for protection. However, as you can see, each piece of the Armor of God is interconnected and dependent on one another, creating a complete system that equips us for spiritual warfare. The Belt of Truth we discussed previously is foundational, holding everything together (in love)  and ensuring we stand firm in our faith. The point I am trying to make is that living in righteous and obedience to God provides a confidence. It’s not worrying about the attacks, because the battle is already won.

Guarding the Heart

The breastplate's primary function is to guard the soldiers heart. Proverbs 4:23: “Guard your heart, for everything flows from it.” What flows from the heart? Love. It is God’s unconditional love that inspires our desire for righteousness. As we experience His unconditional love, we reflect that same love in our lives, driving us toward righteousness. Righteousness is an act of love.

This love is not passive; it requires action. The journey toward righteousness involves turning away from evil ways and committing to operate in complete faith and obedience to God. When God promises something, we are called to trust Him wholeheartedly, regardless of the circumstances we face. Just as Abraham demonstrated in Hebrews 11:8-10, he obeyed God’s call and moved forward in faith, even when it seemed impossible. Despite being mocked and facing uncertainty, Abraham trusted that God would fulfill His promise. This circles back to the confidence that is felt by living in righteousness.

The Protective Nature of Righteousness

Just as the breastplate protects a soldier's vital organs, the breastplate of righteousness guards our hearts and the flow of love within us. Righteousness acts as a shield against the attacks of the enemy, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our faith.

There are so many Biblical references to God protecting the righteous. For instance, Proverbs 10:2 says that “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death.”  Psalm 1:6 says that the way of the righteous is known by the Lord, while Psalm 37:1 encourages us not to fret over evildoers. Proverbs 12:28 tells us that in the path of righteousness is life, and Isaiah 54:14 declares, “In righteousness you shall be established.” The beauty of righteousness is that it not only protects us but also aligns us with God’s purpose and plan for our lives. Titus 3:5 and Proverbs 11:4, explain that our salvation and security come through righteousness again tying to the Armor of God as a whole in the Helmet of Salvation.

The point is that when we repent of our evil ways and walk in faith, upholding righteousness, attacks will come. There will be skepticism and critical comments. There will be brokenness and hurt. There will be lies and whispers. Circumstances will seem to hard to bear or even impossible to overcome. This is about the weapons of spiritual warfare. 2 Corinthians 10:4 The enemy will be on the attack but having the faith in Gods protection while operating in righteousness thwarts those attacks “No weapon formed against me shall prosper” Isaiah 54:17 It comes down to confidence that God will protect no matter what and fulfill the vision and promise he made.

Love Binds It All Together

Going back to the interconnectedness of the Armor of God, l really want to highlight the power of love. Colossians 3:14 “And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Love is the thread that weaves through each piece of armor, creating a cohesive system that empowers us to stand firm. At the heart of righteousness is love; our desire for righteousness is rooted in God’s unconditional love for us. This love gives the confidence to walk in righteousness, reflecting God’s character to those around us “...But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13 

Reflecting on the breastplate of righteousness, remember that it is not just a protective piece of armor; it is a symbol of our identity as children of God. Like the Roman soldier and the firefighter, called to stand firm in faith, embodying righteousness through actions and love for others. It guards the heart,  knowing that everything flows from it.  Always seek to live in the righteousness that comes from faith in Christ. When we turn away from our evil ways and trust in His promises, there is confidence that our faith and righteousness will be rewarded. In love, there is strength to wear God’s Armor and stand against any challenge.


Tomorrow, the series continues talking about Peace. As already revealed in yesterday's post, I will compare the Shoes of Peace to the turnout pants and boots. I appreciate you reading and I hope this is beneficial. As always I am open to feedback and comments.


-JH.
Location: Meridian, ID, USA

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