The Whole Armor of God Part 4 Shield of Faith wards off blows
Ephesians 6 verse 16 (The Passion Translation) "In every battle, take faith as your wrap-around shield, for it is able to extinguish the blazing arrows coming at you from the evil one".
Back when Paul wrote this passage, his imagery would have been with the Roman soldier's shield which could protect most parts of his body, except his lower legs and feet. The shield of faith covers our most vulnerable spots, especially our heart. This heavy shield can withstand the impact of fiery blows from the enemy.
Some of these flaming arrows could be 'doubt', 'fear', 'discontent', 'envy', 'comparison to others', 'anger', etc. The scripture tells us to 'take up' the shield of faith. What does this look like?
This means when we encounter a flaming arrow, we look to the Word of God and see what our Lord and our Friend says about the issue that's troubling us. God's Word is truth and is living and active and sharper than a two-edged sword. As we pray and speak out His Word, the shield of faith also acts as an offensive piece or armor, helping us to push back against the enemy.
Genesis 15:1 – God tells Abraham "Do not be afraid Abram, I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward"; also Psalm 33: 20 "Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and shield".
We can have confidence that God is our shield – He will never leave nor forsake us. We can trust Him always.
Shalom Kath
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