Concealed Carry

Are you carrying a weapon? From crime dramas to political debates, one hears about the discussion of concealed carry. This is defined as “the practice of carrying a concealed firearm on one's person in public." Concealed carry is legal in the vast majority of states, but nonetheless is a topic of continual discussion. Opponents of carrying weapons fear nefarious uses of that weapon by its owner. Proponents strongly disagree. The benefits of carrying a weapon can both deter and defend against an attack. A fear in the attacker that the intended victim may be armed can prevent an attack altogether. In the event of an actual attack, the weapon can be used defensively against the enemy. There are valid points on each side of the discussion.

We are told in Scripture that we must be aware that we have an enemy. “Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 AMP) We are also informed that we have been given weapons to protect ourselves and combat this enemy. Just as our enemy is spiritual, never other people, our weapons must also be spiritual. “For the weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood], but they are mighty before God for the overthrow and destruction of strongholds, [Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5 AMP) We are to capture our thoughts and fight off the lies of the devil.

The apostle Paul tells us that our protective gear and weapons include truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. (See Ephesians 6:10–20) “Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God, And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace. Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one]. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.” (Ephesians 6:14-17 AMP) We are wise to suit up and carry the weapons that God has provided.

How do we accomplish this? King David answers that question. “Your word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11 AMP) We study, meditate on and believe the Word of God. By doing so, we are aware of and prepared for the enemy’s strategies.

When we desire to give into selfish motives, the word of God instructs us to walk in love toward others. “And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.” (Ephesians 5:2 AMP) When others have hurt us and show no remorse, we can fight the temptation to become bitter by forgiving them. “And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 AMP) We can choose to believe the best at all times. “Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person.” (1 Corinthians 13:7a AMP) And when we are tempted to worry and be afraid, we can refuse these feelings because God has said, “Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice.” (Isaiah 41:10 AMP)
These are just a few examples of how the word of God can battle the schemes the enemy uses against us. We may be tempted believe the lies and even believe that they are our own thoughts, but we must be ever aware of the truth. Paul instructed Timothy, “Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 AMP) Do not use the Word of God as a set of rules and regulations, placing condemnation on yourself and others. The Lord is full of mercy and grace and will forgive and mature each believer as we seek Him. We cannot choose single verses or passages without considering all of Scripture. And we must be motivated by the love of God.

God has provided everything that we need to win our battles. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” (2 Peter 1:3 AMP) For this we can be grateful and live life knowing, “However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves.” (2 Corinthians 4:7 AMP)

Take up the weapon of the Word of God and carry it in your hearts. With it you can live victoriously.