In a swirling sea of spiritual confusion—where feelings often masquerade as faith, manmade systems can overshadow true surrender, and emotional highs might be mistaken for holiness—it's no wonder that many sincere believers feel exposed, exhausted, and uncertain. The enemy is crafty, and his fiery darts aren't always the obvious attacks; frequently, they are subtle distortions aimed straight at our hearts. That’s why, as we see in Ephesians 6, Christians must don the full armor of God, and especially the centerpiece: the Breastplate of Righteousness.

Imagine a Roman soldier’s armor or, in today’s terms, a military or SWAT team member’s flak vest. It’s all about protecting the vital organ: the heart. Without it, one well-aimed strike could be fatal. Spiritually speaking, the heart is the core of who you are—your will, affections, desires, and convictions. When the Bible tells us to wear the “breastplate of righteousness,” God isn’t promoting self-righteousness or mere religious performance. No, He’s directing us to the righteousness of Christ, received by faith and lived out through obedience. This is the only armor tough enough to guard our hearts against the fiery darts of a hostile world, inside and outside the church.

So, what fiery darts do we need to guard against? Let’s take a look at a few of the devil’s favorite arrows aimed at the heart of faith in the modern church today (last few centuries).

First up: Experiential Elitism (Supernaturalism). You might hear phrases like, “You’re not spiritual unless you feel something supernatural, or being ZAP,” if you will.  This arrow whispers (or shouts) that unless you speak in tongues, fall over during service, or get goosebumps during worship, you’re missing out on God. But here’s the truth: Scripture tells us that righteousness, peace, and joy are the true markers of the Kingdom, not emotional fireworks. Romans 14:17 reminds us, “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

Next on the list: Religious Formalism (Religiousity). When you hear, “God loves you more when you follow the rules,” it’s a dart that could send you spiraling into legalism, making you think you can earn God’s favor. But remember, Christ’s righteousness is a gift, not a wage. The breastplate serves as a reminder that “There is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus” (John 3:17 | Romans 8:1).

And let’s not overlook the concept of Dispensational Escapism (Dispensationalism). This widespread belief, particularly among evangelicals and fundamentalists, asserts, “You don’t need to engage with the world—God’s about to snatch you away!” This misconception leaves believers feeling defensive, critical, contemptuous, and isolated (the four horsemen of the apocalypse), leading to a passive and disengaged existence. However, those who embrace Jesus’ teachings strive to act justly, show mercy, and walk humbly, right here and now (Micah 6:8). The breastplate signifies a call to action, urging against apathy, pharisaical attitudes, zealousness, radical independence, or a cavelike mentality. Instead, it emphasizes reliance on the Lord and His Love, steering clear of vengeance, violence, or charging into battle on a white horse.  

These are just a few of the darts flying our way!

We must remember that the breastplate isn’t something we whip up ourselves—it’s something we fasten on by grace. Righteousness is both positional (only through faith in Christ) and practical (through daily obedience). To wear the breastplate means living a life aligned with God’s truth, rejecting the lies that seek to pierce our hearts, and walking with integrity instead of just inspiration.

Proverbs 4:23 tells us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” When the heart is unguarded, falsehood can sneak in. But when covered in righteousness, our inner life becomes a wellspring of peace, strength, and clarity. So, suit up! The battle is real, but the armor is divine, and the breastplate? It could be the difference between a pierced heart and a protected and transformed life.

In a world that offers flash but often forgets about faithfulness, choose the righteousness of Christ. Don’t settle for a spiritual costume—put on the armor! Let your heart be safeguarded by what is real, not what’s merely driven by fleeting emotions, religiosity, or extreme independence.

The fiery darts are coming. But so is victory—if your heart is covered!

Stay Salty. Shine bright. Suit up!

Pastor Drake