The shield of a Roman soldier was a large oblong wooden “door” covered in hides to strengthen it. It was held before an already armored body as extra protection.
Our faith in God and the redemption of Christ through His blood and grace is a shield before us. Our faith protects us when the enemy comes against us.
Psalm 3:3
3 But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. (NKJV)
What does our enemy use to thwart progress in our Christian walk? Roman soldiers were often attacked with arrows or javelins with fire on their tips. The intention was to pierce the body or set fire to structures. What are our “fiery darts”? We are attacked with thoughts of lust, pride, revenge, past sins, doubt of our salvation, false teachings, weakness of character and the list goes on. They inflame our minds bringing loss of peace and a mind at battle. When is attack likely?
The preferred mode of operation of our great enemy seems to be a sudden attack out of nowhere. We may be walking close to our Lord, staying in the word and suddenly out of nowhere…there it is! That thing we dread or fear is headed in our direction.
Our scripture today says that we “will” be able to quench the darts that come. Not “may” quench, but “will” quench.
Thought For Today:
We must stand with God and Christ Jesus before us as our door size shield. Ready with the word of God deep in our soul, prepared for a sudden attack from the enemy of all believers. The person who understands they are subject to a sudden and powerful attack of evil, stands ready. All of the above is of no result if we do not do our part. We must grasp our shield, lift it up before us and claim triumph and victory over our adversary…the devil…through the blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Ephesians 6:16
16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. (NKJV)
Prayer For Today:
Hello Father! I come before You as one who has been attacked by our adversary. You have taken care all through Your word to forewarn us of the battles we will face once we take Christ as our Savior. We pray for diligence in placing our armor on and standing ready whenever, wherever and from whom the fiery darts will come. Thank You for being our shield. Forgive us of our sins. In Jesus’ name. Amen.