Christian Warfare 9

The next piece of Christian armor is the shield of faith. Paul writes, "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 shield used by soldiers of Paul’s day "was usually made of light wood, or a rim of brass, and covered with several folds or thickness’ of stout hide, which was preserved by frequent anointing. It was held by the left arm, and secured by straps, through which the arm passed . . ." (Albert Barnes, Barnes Notes on Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, page 120). The importance of the shield was in its mobility. The pieces of armor already discussed were stationary, but the shield moved about defending different areas of the body.

The shield of the Christian soldier is faith. What is faith? Someone erroneously defined it as "believing that for which you have no evidence." Abundant evidence exists for God, Jesus, and the inspiration and authority of the Bible to name a few. Some also define faith as simple mental assent concerning God., but faith, biblically speaking, involves far more than simple mental assent. Biblical faith involves trust in and submission to God. Hebrews 11 is filled with examples of biblical faith where these two elements are clearly seen. Among others, the writer lists the fall of Jericho’s walls, the sojourn of Abraham in the land of promise, and Noah built the ark.

How does faith serve as a shield for the soldier of the Lord? When we trust the Lord, commit ourselves to Him, and then act as He instructs, we walk by faith. We know the Lord cares for His people, the Old and New Testaments illustrate this point repeatedly. As the world attacks us, we can confidently go forth each day knowing we serve the Lord, and He protects and provides. Paul wrote the Philippians about this benefit of faith in Philippians 4:6,7, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Faith provides peace of mind which repels the attacks of Satan and the world. But note that Paul wrote of our need for expressing thanksgiving and offering our prayers to God.

How does faith come? Some teach that God gives it and you can do nothing to obtain it. Romans 10:17 informs us it comes from study of the word of God. As we study the Bible, meditate upon it (Psalm 1) feed in it (I Peter 2:2) our understanding grows, our faith (trust, confidence) in God grows and we are better able to repel the attacks that come our way. This is one reason why the elders emphasize the daily reading and study of the Bible and provide two Bible classes each week for young and old. It benefits you in developing a greater faith. The greater your faith the better you are able "to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Ephesians 6:16).

—Denny