Armor of God

Start by playing the Extreme War Card Game. This is a tournament-style variation of War, which is shorter than the traditional game. For detailed instructions, see the Extreme War Card Game.

After playing, ask these questions:

• Did you enjoy competing against each other?
• Did you use your best card right away or save it for later?

Winning a game often involves strategy, like deciding when to use your best card. In spiritual battles, however, we don’t need to hold back. God has given us an abundance of resources to fight against evil in our daily lives.

Read the Gospel:

Mark 13:24-32 (Jesus talks about the tribulation) – the Gospel Reading for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B

Jesus said to his disciples: “In those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

“And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.

“Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.

In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that he is near, at the gates. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

Mark 13:24-32

Jesus talks about some pretty scary stuff, like suffering and tough times. It can seem overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that this isn’t just about the end of the world. We all face hard moments in our lives. None of us escapes suffering, but we’re not alone in these struggles. Jesus is with us, and He gives us tools to help us through the dark times.

One of the most important tools is the Armor of God. This spiritual armor helps us resist temptation and stay strong in our faith. It’s like wearing protective gear in a tough game. The Armor of God includes things like truth, righteousness, and faith. These are qualities that help us live according to God’s teachings and resist evil.

Let’s look at the sacraments, which are a big part of the Armor of God. First, there’s baptism. Baptism is where it all starts. It gives us the grace and protection we need to grow in our faith. It also means we can receive other sacraments, like the Eucharist and Reconciliation, where God continues to pour out His love and grace on us.

We also receive the Light of Christ at our baptism. This is symbolized by lighting a baptismal candle from the Easter candle. This light is meant to shine in our hearts, helping us see the right path. We keep this light burning by praying, reading the Bible, and going to Mass. These actions help us stay close to Jesus and live out our faith.

Every Easter, we get the chance to renew our baptismal promises. This is a way of reminding ourselves of our commitment to God. It’s like hitting the reset button and focusing again on what really matters.

Reconciliation is another important sacrament. When we mess up and sin, we can go to confession and receive forgiveness. This not only cleanses us from sin but also gives us the strength to do better next time. It’s like a spiritual refresh that helps keep the Light of Christ burning bright in us.

The Eucharist is a huge part of our spiritual armor. During Mass, we participate in Jesus’ prayer to the Father, and the Holy Spirit helps us connect with this mystery. Receiving Communion makes us living tabernacles of Jesus. This is a powerful protection against evil because Satan can’t stand being near our Lord. That’s why it’s so important to go to Mass regularly.

Besides the sacraments, God also gives us angels to protect us. St. Michael the Archangel is known as a warrior who fights against Satan. We also have our guardian angels, who are always with us. Whenever we feel tempted or weak, we can call on them for help. They’re like our spiritual bodyguards, always ready to assist us.

So, when you’re faced with tough choices or feel overwhelmed, remember that God has given you strong armor.

St. Paul tells us

Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.

Ephesians 6:11

It’s solid advice that helps us stay strong in our faith and resist the tactics of the devil.

It’s also important to remember that the Armor of God isn’t just about protection; it’s about being proactive in our faith. We are called to live out the qualities of this armor in our daily lives.

For example, the “belt of truth” means being honest and living with integrity. The “breastplate of righteousness” calls us to make choices that reflect God’s justice and love. Each piece of the armor isn’t just for defense—it’s a way of living that brings us closer to God and helps us share His love with others.

You face many challenges and temptations, whether it’s peer pressure, doubts about your faith, or struggles in school and relationships. The Armor of God equips you to handle these situations with grace and strength. By embracing these spiritual tools, you can navigate the challenges of life with confidence, knowing that God is with you. It’s like having a solid game plan that guides you through tough times and helps you make good decisions.

Finally, never underestimate the power of prayer. It’s the thread that ties the Armor of God together. Prayer keeps us connected to God, helps us seek His guidance, and strengthens our resolve. Whether it’s a quick prayer in a moment of need or a deeper time of reflection, prayer is a powerful weapon in our spiritual arsenal. It’s how we communicate with God, express our needs, and thank Him for His blessings.

So, as you go through life, remember that you are never alone. The Armor of God is always available to you, giving you the strength and protection you need. Use it daily by living out the qualities of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. Keep your prayer life strong, and rely on the sacraments and the support of your faith community. With this armor, you can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that God is always by your side.

After exploring the concept of the Armor of God and engaging in activities like the Extreme War Card Game, it’s valuable to have a small group discussion. This time allows participants to reflect on what they’ve learned, share their thoughts, and deepen their understanding. Below are some questions to guide your discussion. Encourage everyone to participate and share their perspectives.

• Understanding the Armor of God:
  • What is one piece of the Armor of God that stood out to you? Why?
  • How can you apply the “shield of faith” in your daily life?
  • What does the “sword of the Spirit” represent, and how can it help you in challenging situations?
• Personal Reflection:
  • Can you think of a time when you felt like you were in a spiritual battle? How did you handle it?
  • Which aspect of the Armor of God do you find most challenging to live out? Why?
  • How can prayer strengthen your “armor”?
• Practical Application:
  • What are some practical ways you can “put on” the Armor of God each day?
  • How can we support each other in using the Armor of God in our lives?
  • Why is it important to remember that God provides us with these spiritual tools in abundance?
• Connecting to Faith:
  • How does understanding the Armor of God change the way you view challenges in your life?
  • What role do the sacraments play in helping us wear the Armor of God?
  • How can we better incorporate the teachings of the Armor of God into our everyday actions?

Encourage open and respectful dialogue, allowing each person to express their thoughts and feelings. This discussion is a great opportunity to grow together in faith and to find practical ways to apply the Armor of God in everyday life.

This week, if you ever feel like you’re being pulled away from Jesus or tempted to do something wrong, take a moment to pause. In that moment, say a simple prayer: “Jesus my Savior, be my light. St. Michael, fight for me. My guardian angel, protect me.” This prayer is a way to call on the strength and protection of Jesus and the angels. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in facing these challenges.

After saying the prayer, take action to join in the battle against temptation. This might mean walking away from a negative situation, choosing to do something positive, or simply taking a deep breath and refocusing on what you know is right.

Remember that resisting temptation isn’t just about avoiding something wrong—it’s also about choosing to do what is good and true. By relying on Jesus, St. Michael, and your guardian angel, you are using the Armor of God to stay strong and faithful. Keep this challenge in mind throughout the week, and notice how it helps you stay connected to your faith.

If time permits, spend some time praying to Jesus before the tabernacle.

Close by praying the St. Michael the Archangel Prayer. (Get a printable copy here.)

St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.

Themes for Armor of God Lesson Plan on Spiritual Warfare

• Faith as Shield: Faith protects us from doubt and despair. It helps us trust in God’s love and promises. Strong faith acts as a shield against the attacks of evil.
• Prayer as Weapon: Prayer is our direct line to God. It strengthens us and helps us stay connected to His will. Through prayer, we find guidance and peace.
• Scripture as Guide: The Bible provides wisdom and truth. It teaches us how to live according to God’s will. By studying Scripture, we learn how to resist temptation.
• Grace through Sacraments: Sacraments give us God’s grace. They strengthen our soul and protect us from sin. The Eucharist and Reconciliation are especially powerful.
• Role of Angels: Angels are God’s messengers and protectors. They help guide us and keep us safe. We can call on St. Michael and our guardian angels for help.
• Unity in Community: Being part of a faith community supports our spiritual growth. We encourage and strengthen each other. Together, we can stand firm against challenges.
• Perseverance in Trials: Hard times test our faith but also make it stronger. Perseverance helps us grow in trust and reliance on God. We learn to stay faithful even in difficulties.
• Discernment of Spirits: Understanding the influences in our life is important. We must discern what is from God and what is not. This helps us make good choices.
• Living in Hope: Hope keeps us focused on God’s promises. It helps us endure hardships and look forward to eternal life. Hope is a key part of the Christian journey.
• Moral Integrity: Living a moral life is part of our witness to Christ. It involves making choices that reflect our faith and values. Moral integrity is a defense against sin.
• Spiritual Discipline: Discipline in prayer, fasting, and other practices strengthens our spiritual life. It helps us grow closer to God. These habits build spiritual resilience.

Background Material for Armor of God Lesson Plan on Spiritual Warfare

The “Armor of God” is a biblical concept that appears in Ephesians 6:10-18. In this passage, St. Paul urges Christians to put on spiritual armor to protect themselves from evil. This teaching is important in Catholic tradition, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparation in the spiritual life. The “Armor of God” includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.

In Catholic teaching, this spiritual armor is understood as God’s grace working in our lives. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) explains that we are in a spiritual battle, saying, “The whole of man’s history has been the story of dour combat with the powers of evil” (CCC 409). This combat is not just against physical enemies but also against spiritual forces that try to lead us away from God.

The belt of truth represents honesty and integrity. As Catholics, we are called to live in the truth, as Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). The breastplate of righteousness symbolizes living a moral and just life. It means making choices that are in line with God’s commandments and teachings.

The gospel of peace reminds us to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. St. Paul says, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15). The shield of faith protects us from the doubts and fears that can weaken our faith. It helps us to trust in God, even when faced with challenges.

The helmet of salvation signifies the hope of eternal life. It reminds us that our ultimate goal is to be with God forever. The sword of the Spirit represents the Word of God. Scripture is a powerful tool in fighting against temptation and evil. As Hebrews 4:12 states, “The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.”

The sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, are vital in this spiritual battle. The Eucharist nourishes our souls and strengthens us. Reconciliation provides forgiveness and helps us to start anew. These sacraments are gifts from God that equip us with grace, which is necessary for the spiritual fight.

The Church also teaches the importance of prayer. Prayer is a way to communicate with God and seek His guidance. St. Paul encourages us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Through prayer, we receive the strength to resist temptation and grow in holiness.

Finally, the Church recognizes the role of angels in our spiritual lives. The Catechism says, “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession” (CCC 336). Angels, especially St. Michael the Archangel, protect us and help us in our battle against evil.

The “Armor of God” is a vital concept in Catholic teaching. It reminds us of the spiritual tools God provides to protect and strengthen us. By using these tools, we can live a life of faith and grow closer to God. This lesson plan aims to help youth understand and apply these teachings in their lives, helping them to stand firm in their faith.

Music Suggestions for Armor of God Lesson Plan on Spiritual Warfare

• Whom Shall I Fear / God of Angel Armies
• I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light
• The Jesus Song (Jesus I Trust In You)
• Find Us Ready

More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections

For more free lesson plans and reflections on the Armor of God and other topics, visit our lesson plans page. Our resources are designed to help teachers, youth ministers, and catechists guide young people in their faith journey. These plans offer practical and engaging ways to explore spiritual themes and strengthen their relationship with God. Check them out to find the perfect fit for your group!