The Armor of Light. God’s apocalyptic war is fought with different weapons than those of violent earthly wars. Hupomone is particularly important as a gift of the Spirit. Often translated simply “patience,” hupomone can also mean “long-suffering,” “endurance,” or “perseverance.” Eugene Peterson’s phrase is apt: “a long obedience in the same direction.” Dorothy Day wrote that the word “patience” meant suffering. Paul writes, “Love is patient and kind. . . . Love endures all things” (I Cor. 13:4, 7). The armor of light is described in Ephesians 6:10–17, concluding in verse 18 with prayer as
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