Last year at our men’s retreat, I was asked to speak on the “Sword of the Spirit,” which is the Word of God. Since I’m a gun guy, I couldn’t help but draw some parallels between what Paul describes in Ephesians and what a lot of us carry today. Here’s what I shared—maybe it’ll get you thinking too.
Modern Armor: From Swords to Sidearms
When I read about the armor of God, I always picture a Roman soldier. But these days, most of us aren’t strapping on ancient armor, and the sword isn’t our everyday weapon. Instead, I think about putting on my Springfield Hellcat Pro. So, I want you to imagine the “Sword of the Spirit” like a modern-day firearm—maybe call it the “Gun of God.”
Never thought I’d be comparing my Springfield to the Bible, but here we are!
Mindset: Walking Prepared
When you carry a firearm, your mindset changes. You’re more alert, more aware of what’s happening around you, always thinking through scenarios. In the same way, when you make daily Bible reading part of your life, your mindset shifts. You react differently to people, you find more patience, and you start looking for ways to weave God into everyday conversations—even with people you’d never have thought to talk faith with.
Hebrews 4:12 says,
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword (in our case, faster and more powerful than any gun), piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Situational Awareness—Spiritually and Physically
In the firearms community, “keep your head on a swivel” is a saying for a reason. You’re always thinking ahead, spotting exits, planning your responses. It’s the same spiritually. When you’re “in the Word,” you can spot when conversations or situations are headed somewhere they shouldn’t—gossip, crude jokes, negativity, or worse. The Bible mindset helps keep your head and your heart alert, and gives you the nudge to take that spiritual exit.
Living Up to a Higher Standard
Carrying a firearm means you’re held to a higher standard. People expect you to be calm, to de-escalate, to avoid trouble whenever possible. In the same way, those of us carrying God’s Word should hold ourselves to a higher standard too.
Proverbs 15:1:
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Ephesians 4:29-32:
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen…”
This isn’t just about “not cussing”—it’s about how we live, speak, and set an example.
Peace of Mind, Responsibility, and Training
There’s a peace of mind that comes with being prepared, but also a heavy responsibility. Carrying a firearm isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about being trained, knowing how to respond, and being willing to put others’ safety first. In the same way, being in God’s Word gives me a peace—not just about eternity, but about how I walk through everyday life. Training with a firearm brings confidence; being grounded in Scripture brings resilience and patience.
Practice Makes Perfect
To use a firearm effectively, you need practice. You get familiar with how it works, maintain it, and train so you’re ready when you need it. It’s the same with the Bible.
2 Timothy 3:16-17:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
The more you’re in the Word, the more equipped you are—for your own growth, and to help others or defend your faith when the time comes.
The Right Ammo—Context Matters
Not every round fits every gun, and not every verse fits every situation. Using Scripture in the right context is just as important as using the right ammo.
2 Timothy 2:15:
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Offense and Defense—Using God’s Word Wisely
We don’t carry firearms to attack people, but to be ready when we need to defend or protect. The “Sword of the Spirit” works both ways—it’s for defense, but also for taking ground, speaking truth, and helping others.
Jesus showed us this when He faced temptation in the wilderness—every time the enemy came at Him, He responded with Scripture: “It is written.”
We don’t wave our “sword” (or gun) around just to show off, but when the moment comes—whether to give hope, correct something wrong, or stand for truth—we’re ready.
How has God’s Word been your “armor” or “weapon” lately? Share your story in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you put on your armor every day.