Shield of Faith
Ephesians 6:16
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
In ancient warfare, a soldier’s shield was one of the most critical pieces of equipment. These shields were often large, designed to cover the entire body, and crafted to deflect heavy blows. In battle, they served not only as personal protection but also as a tool for collective defense when soldiers stood side by side, forming a nearly impenetrable wall. The purpose of the shield wasn’t just to block random strikes but to serve as a safeguard against targeted attacks, absorbing the force of the enemy’s assault.
Similarly, the enemy we face, Satan, does not strike randomly. He hurls fiery arrows of doubt, fear, temptation, and discouragement—each one aimed at weakening our faith and chipping away at our trust in God. But just as an ancient shield could extinguish flaming arrows, the shield of faith we carry can extinguish all of Satan’s fiery attacks. Not some, but all. Faith acts as a powerful defense, absorbing and snuffing out every attempt to shake our confidence in God’s promises.
The words “in addition to all this” point back to the armor Paul has already described: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of peace. These foundational pieces prepare us for battle, but the shield of faith adds another layer of protection. It’s not just something extra; it’s a necessary addition to the armor we already wear, allowing us to withstand the enemy’s relentless attacks. In battle, every piece works together, and faith empowers the rest of our armor to function as God intended. Without it, we leave ourselves exposed.
Taking up our shield of faith is not a suggestion, it's a command. Satan will attack, and the arrows may come from all sides. As believers, we must take up arms against him, actively raising our shields to guard against his fiery darts. We are not called to fight this battle alone. It reminds me of a powerful scene from the movie Gladiator, where a group of warriors face overwhelming danger and defeat seems certain. As chariots encircle them, the Gladiator commands, “Lock your shields. Stay as one!” This rallying cry reflects the same spirit found in Philippians 2:2: “Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” Just as those soldiers locked their shields for a stronger defense, we too must unite as believers and stay as one. Through accountability, unity, and steadfast prayer, we strengthen and uphold one another. Together, our shields of faith form an impenetrable barrier against the enemy’s attacks, and through our shared faith, we stand firm in God’s promises and protection.
