The Shield of Faith

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked (Ephesians 6:16).

The Roman soldier often carried a large shield almost two and a half feet wide and four and a half feet high. It was designed to protect as much of the soldier's body as possible. Being made of wood and covered in either metal or leather, it wasn't lightweight. The soldier would also commonly dip it in water before battle to further protect from flaming arrows.

Our enemies also use hot arrows, such as criticism, lies, anger, fear, doubt, depression, greed, lust, and every other problem or temptation. However, the shield of faith will deflect all these because our true Protector is God Himself. We must trust in Him and run to Him when problems come our way, when life is wonderful, and at all times in between.

God has also given us the body of Christ, a church congregation, to have our backs. In early Roman times, a line of soldiers could interlock their shields, forming a solid wall, and march toward the enemy. We, too, can present a united front. We have the Holy Spirit and other Christians with us. God never intended for us to be in this battle alone. 

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