But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

I thought here of a friend who is in law enforcement. When going into a potentially dangerous situation, a bullet-proof vest would be added to their wardrobe – a breastplate – a piece of armor to protect the vital organs of the body. We are to put on a breastplate of a different kind – faith and love. Faith in God’s protection will protect our hearts from fear. Love will receive no evil, nor will it harm others. Love will be both defensive and offensive, protecting and reaching out at the same time. Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Matthew 5:44