The Armor of GodExemplo

Protective faith

“In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16)

Satan is very real, and his attacks are very real as well. They are compared to flaming darts; meant to injure us and cause us to lose our passion and zeal for our Saviour and Lord. But God offers us protection by the shield of faith, with which we can extinguish and ward off these flaming darts.

The devil is very mean. He attacks us directly or via people around us. Paul knew that from experience, for example when he was imprisoned and suffered (a clear example of a direct attack), and in that difficult time many fellow believers turned away from him (an indirect attack) (see 2 Timothy 1).

The shield of faith helps in two ways: it allows us to see through the devil’s attacks, and it helps us seek refuge in our God who is mightier than Satan and “will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Do you see through Satan’s attacks? And do you use the shield of faith to protect yourself?