Devotional

The Shield of Faith

...above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. -Ephesians 6:16

First Peter 5:8 says that our “adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” His attack against us is relentless as he seeks to tempt us (Matt. 4:1), oppose us (Zech. 3:1), bring disease (Job 2:7), and prompt us to sin (Acts 5:3). In fact, John 10:10 says that all of Satan’s efforts are aimed at causing three things: robbery, death, and destruction.

This text challenges us to take up the shield of faith! The Greek word for faith literally means “conviction, confidence, trust, belief.” But what are we to have our confidence in? The answer is, of course, our Lord. Psalm 3:3 says, “But You, O LORD, are a shield for me.” This psalm later speaks of God not only defending us, but pursuing our enemies and saving us from the enemies’ snare through rescue (v. 4), rest (v. 5), and deliverance (v. 6).

Rest in that promise today. Your shield of faith is the Lord!

Ephesians