I flipped off the last light switch and was heading to sleep myself when I felt the sudden unction to pray for my children.

I’ve realized lately the need to go to war for them.

From questionable ads on their devices to alluring billboards on our road trips, my kids have been surrounded by images I wished they’d never seen.

It has prompted some serious family conversations over the past few months.

I remember the days when I could snuggle my little babies in my arms and my only job was to nurture them.

How did I turn into a warrior, Sword-wielding princess ready to attack any viscous thing that dare tread near my sweethearts?

It was when I came to the realization that my Mama job was more than kisses and packing neat lunch boxes.

I would be naïve to think that when I send my kids out the door, they know how to handle the devil’s schemes….without a little talking-to. I mean, they could literally be sitting under my nose, on my couch, exposed to his tactics.

Ephesians 6:12 says “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Ladies let’s not be mistaken: They will face STRUGGLES. There’s no hiding from that roaring lion.

But don’t shake in your boots because God gives us an outfit like no other, a GAME PLAN for the battle and shows us how we can be VICTORS (“…and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13):

Here’s the outfit for battle:

Belt of TRUTH

Breastplate of RIGHTEOUSNESS

Feet fitted with …GOSPEL OF PEACE

Shield of FAITH

Helmet of SALVATION

Sword of the SPIRIT

My husband and I try to instill godly principles on a daily basis that will hopefully jog our kids’ memories in the future. And we discuss sensitive topics based on their maturity levels. We are aware that children are exposed to more and more at a younger age.

When Jesus was sending out his disciples to minister, he didn’t just give them a “feel-good” pep talk. This is what he said, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard…” Matthew 10:16-17

Friends, we are sending our kids out into a battlefield when we buckle them in their seats for school. Let’s give them some armor.

Make sure their backpacks have their cute lunch boxes and pencil cases, but more importantly, make sure they’ve packed

their swords (the Word of God) in their little hearts.

That’s the best school supply that will prepare them for survival.

~Elizabeth/Betsy

*Photo: My parents blessing my son