A Belt of Truth

Ok, so, why “a belt of truth”? Chiefly because I like to think I’m clever. Also, it felt catchy without being irreverent. Honestly, the first thought I had about “a belt” was a quick shot or gulp. That seems to fit this short address. But also, to “belt” something means to scream aloud or really have the volume turned up. Finally, If I were to say I “belted” someone you would understand me to have hit them- hard, and, probably only one time. All of these seem to fit while being a play on words for the armor of God.

Considering the armor of God, I ask; have you ever wondered why truth is given the placement of a belt? While I don’t know exactly what God was thinking I would posit that perhaps it is because our freedom is based in truth. “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’” (John 8:31-32, ESV)

Belts (as garments) are for securing- the opposite of freedom. This oxymoron works because Jesus has secured our freedom (from the penalty of sin). Jesus IS the truth (John 14:6). Since we are united with Jesus in baptism it seems apropos that He also be what holds together the armor with which we fight the adversary.

(A note from the new guy: We’re new here, but, we’ve all been reading from the same scriptures. I’m excited to study them further with you. It’s a pleasure to meet fellow members of Christ’s body and I look forward to serving our God with you. Please, feel free to text, call, or e-mail anytime. Thank you all for the outpouring of hospitality that has been shown to my family during our move. You folks are wonderful, and we are blessed.)