Shield Of Faith

Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Ephesians 6:16

Pause

Crisis leaves us vulnerable to the enemy called Fear. It launches an attack in our mind, planting seeds of doubt about God’s intent toward us and those we love. It takes our imagination hostage and forces it to places occupied by dread. It shadows our thoughts, filling them with darkness so we can’t see our way. But God has equipped us to fight back using the shield of faith.

Roman soldiers did battle carrying door-sized shields that covered them completely and protected them from harm. We do battle carrying the shield of faith when we exercise trust in God and his nature, and his promises to be with us, to provide for us, and to strengthen us.

No matter what situation we face, God gives us enough faith to deflect Fear’s assaults. We can stand against the enemy, not merely hoping to win, but confident that we will overcome. Faith in God and his power, wisdom, and love thwarts Fear’s attempts to make us its victims. Faith protects us from its grip and makes us victors instead.

Ponder

Identify your greatest fear in your current situation.

Pray

Father, teach me to use the shield of faith to fight the enemy.