"If I might read only one book beside the Bible, I would choose The Christian in Complete Armour." — John Newton The Christian in Complete Armour: Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare is packed with truths for spiritual triumph. Originally written in the seventeenth century by Pastor William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour is among the most highly regarded Christian books ever written in the English language. Charles Spurgeon called it "the best thought breeder in our library." This version, edited into modern English and compiled into 365 readings by editor James S. Bell Jr., gives Christians soul-searching and inspiring devotional supplements to the Bible. For baby believers and seasoned ones alike, The Christian in Complete Armour: Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare will help readers walk and stand in the triumph of Christ. "If I might read only one book besides the Bible, I would choose The Christian in Complete Armour." —John Newton " . . . the best thought breeder in our library." —Charles Spurgeon For generations, Christians have wondered at the uncommon depth and penetrating wisdom of The Christian in Complete Armour . Originally written in the 1600s by Puritan pastor William Gurnall, it is regarded as one of the best Christian books ever composed in the English language. This version, edited into modern English and compiled into 365 readings, offers short yet soul-searching reflections on the power of God in the life of the Christian. For new believers and seasoned ones alike, Daily Readings from The Christian in Complete Armour is packed with truths for spiritual triumph, helping you live mightily in the great strength of God. WILLIAM GURNALL (1616-1679) was a graduate of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, England, a university under strong Puritan influence. His life's work was as pastor of the Church of Christ, in Suffolk. He authored The Christian in Complete Armour: Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare. JAMES STUART BELL is the owner of Whitestone Communications, a literary development agency. James has past editorial leadership experience with a number of publishers. He has received inside and cover credit for over one hundred print and audio volumes which he has compiled. He currently lives in West Chicago with his wife, Margaret. Daily Readings from the Christian in Complete Armour By William Gurnall, James S. Bell Moody Publishers Copyright © 1994 James S. Bell Jr. All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-0-8024-1336-9 CHAPTER 1 JANUARY 1 The Christian's Call to Courage Who among us has not learned from his own experience that it requires another spirit than the world can give to follow Christ fully? There are so many who profess Christ and so few who are in fact Christians; so many who go into the field against Satan, and so few who come out conquerors. All may have a desire to be successful soldiers, but few have the courage and determination to grapple with the difficulties that accost them on the way to victory. All Israel followed Moses joyfully out of Egypt. But when their stomachs were a little pinched with hunger, and their immediate desires deferred, they were ready at once to retreat. They preferred the bondage of Pharaoh to the promised blessings of the Lord. Men are no different today. How many part with Christ at the crossroad of suffering! Like Orpah, they go a short distance only (Ruth 1.14). They profess the Gospel and name themselves heirs to the blessings of the saints. But when put to the test, they quickly grow sick of the journey and refuse to endure for Christ. At the first sign of hardship, they kiss and leave the Savior, reluctant to lose heaven, but even more unwilling to buy it at so dear a price. If they must resist so many enemies on the way, they will content themselves with their own stagnant cisterns and leave the Water of Life for others who will venture farther for it. Who among us has not learned from his own experience that it requires another spirit than the world can give to follow Christ fully? Let this exhort you, then, Christian, to petition God for the holy determination and bravery you must have to follow Christ. Without it you cannot be what you profess. The fearful are those who march for hell (Revelation 21:8); the valiant are they who take heaven by force (Matthew 11:12). Cowards never won heaven. Do not claim that you are begotten of God and have His royal blood running in your veins unless you can prove your lineage by this heroic spirit: to dare to be holy in spite of men and devils. JANUARY 2 You Are Part of Christ's Armor God Himself underwrites your battle and has appointed His own Son "the captain of [your] salvation" (Hebrews 2:10). You should find great strength and encouragement in the knowledge that your commission is divine. God Himself underwrites your battle and has appointed His own Son "the captain of [your] salvation" (Hebrews 2:10). He will lead you on to the field with courage, and bring yo