Brave and Prepared
Healthy to the Core – Week 4: Brave and Prepared
At New Life Church, Pastor Mike Wilson continued the Healthy to the Core series with a powerful and timely message titled “Brave and Prepared.” This sermon dove deep into what it means to live a courageous Christian life while being spiritually equipped for the battles we face daily.
The Foundation: Ephesians 6 and the Armor of God
Mike opened with a call to remember our spiritual heritage, referencing how many grew up learning about the armor of God in Sunday school (Ephesians 6:10–18). The Apostle Paul’s message to the church in Ephesus rings just as true today:
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil
This armor isn’t just a childhood object lesson—it’s a divine strategy for being brave and prepared in our walk with Christ.
Why Bravery Alone Isn't Enough
Bravery without preparation is recklessness. Using the analogy of a soldier heading into battle, Mike painted a vivid picture of what real readiness looks like—not a guy in jeans and a T-shirt with a beer in hand, but someone brave and prepared with gear, strategy, and training.
“Paul told us that all Christians are in a battle—whether we know it or not.”
Many believers face spiritual warfare without realizing it. The enemy isn’t just bad luck or difficult relationships—Scripture tells us plainly:
“We are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world."
Recognizing the Enemy
Mike broke down the tactics of the Satan (as he intentionally calls him to remove the dignity of a proper name): lies, deception, and discouragement.
“The Satan will tell you you’re not good enough. But God says you are His masterpiece."
“The Satan will tell you your sin disqualifies you. But God says there’s no condemnation in Christ”
“The Satan will tell you that you’re alone. But God promises He will never leave you”
Being brave and prepared means we must first identify these lies and counter them with biblical truth.
The Armor in Detail
1. The Belt of Truth
Truth is the first defense. Lies are the enemy’s favorite tool, so truth must be the foundation of our identity and calling.
2. The Breastplate of Righteousness
Righteousness isn’t about perfection—it’s about protection.
“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life”
Integrity protects us from shame and accusation. Living rightly is how we protect our hearts in a broken world.
3. Shoes of Peace from the Good News
God’s peace anchors us.
“For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared”
A New Goal for Health
We walk through jagged ground, but peace allows us to move forward confidently.
4. Shield of Faith
Faith shields us when the enemy attacks. Like Captain America’s shield, our faith absorbs the blows of doubt and fear.
“Hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil”
5. Helmet of Salvation
The battle in our minds is often the hardest.
“Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think”
We can’t save ourselves. The helmet reminds us that salvation is God’s work and our identity is secure in Him.
6. Sword of the Spirit (Word of God)
God’s Word is not just knowledge; it’s our weapon.
“Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”
Mike shared the Greek word rhema, meaning God’s direct revelation—personal, precise, and powerful.
The Power of Prayer
“Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion”
Prayer invites God’s power into our personal battles. It’s how we lean on the strength that is greater than ours. Mike illustrated this with a personal childhood story, where he was emboldened not by his own strength but by the presence of his bigger, stronger twin brother.
In the same way, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit, not because we’re strong, but because He is.
Victory Comes from Being Brave and Prepared
When we put on the full armor of God, we are both brave and prepared.
“If you will put on the armor of God, you will win because the Satan’s already been defeated.”
Mike emphasized that living bravely isn’t about being fearless—it’s about being ready. Life is spiritual warfare, and without preparation, we risk falling victim to discouragement, shame, and spiritual apathy.
God Is With You
The message closed with a powerful visual from John 14:
“The Holy Spirit lives in you… You are in me, and I am in the Father.”
This trinitarian truth gives believers incredible confidence. We are not alone. We live in Christ, and He lives in us.
Are You Brave and Prepared?
Mike challenged listeners to ask themselves:
Are you aware of the spiritual battle happening in your life?
Are you brave and prepared to fight?
Have you put on every piece of armor available to you?
Are you rooted in truth, shielded by faith, and wielding the Word?
When we are spiritually healthy to the core, we are strong not only in times of peace but especially in times of war.
Scriptures Referenced
Ephesians 6:10–18
Romans 12:2
Proverbs 4:23
Ephesians 2:10
Romans 8:1
Deuteronomy 31:6
John 14
This message reminds us that bravery without preparation is dangerous, and preparation without courage is ineffective. But when both come together through faith in Christ, believers can face anything the enemy throws their way.
At New Life Church, the goal is to be Healthy to the Core—not just emotionally, physically, or relationally, but spiritually as well. This message was a bold reminder that God calls His people to live brave and prepared for whatever battle lies ahead.
Let’s suit up.
Did you like Healthy to the Core – Week 4 – Brave and Prepared? If so, check out more of our Sunday teachings here.
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