The Shield of Faith, Part I

Faith is that indispensable part of the believer’s armor that defends us from Satan’s “fiery darts.” The Roman shield (Gr. thureos) was large enough to protect the entire body. It was covered with tough leather and soaked in water during combat to extinguish arrows dipped in some flammable substance, ignited, and shot. The spiritual lesson is quite obvious – if we do not quench Satan’s “fiery darts” by faith, they will kindle a fire within us that will result in defeat.

The “faith” in view here is not strictly justifying faith or the body of God’s revealed truth. It is basic trust in God. Every man has faith whether he realizes it or not. It has been truly said, “A man’s religion is his reliance.” We could not exist and operate in our society without faith in the areas of relationships, technology, and goals. Every man believes in something (or someone) that represents the supreme good in his life.

Practical faith in God is essential to our victory, well-being, and success. The breastplate of righteousness also protected the heart, but the shield of faith is the first line of defense.

Do you truly desire this faith? It does not come naturally. Unbelief runs in our blood. Faith is the “gift of God”. We should continually cry out to God for more faith. Faith comes through the Word of God. God gives more faith as we exercise the faith we already have. Let us take care to always “walk by faith” ” and hold our shield up.