Day 8: Take Up the Shield of Faith

A metal shield defended the ancient soldier from an enemy's offensive maneuvers, protecting him from bodily harm. Roman soldiers were trained to work together, layering their shields into an impenetrable wall that could withstand any attack.

How can faith protect you from the flaming arrows that might come your way in the spiritual battle?

Consider this painting.

Janelle Bush painted this artwork, titled Interpretation of War. She writes:

When pondering on this verse and seeking how to express it, I couldn't quit thinking about how "the battle is not [against] flesh and blood." I created this piece to bring a visual to what so many of us face in the day to day. I used my husband as the subject, helping me to look behind even what I as a woman, wife, and mother may face in this battle. I chose the graffiti style to showcase the beauty and chaos that is this life. My husband and I have been in a tough season and have felt the battle lately and it feels a little like this looks. It's tough, it's gritty, and most of all it's real.

The shield of faith is a symbol of protection, representing our faith in God and our trust in Him. The "flaming arrows of the evil one" represent the temptations, distractions, and lies of the devil that aim to steer us away from God and destroy our faith.

The metaphor is that if we take up the shield of faith, we can "extinguish" these attacks, effectively neutralizing their power over us. When we have a strong faith in God and trust in His protection, we can face any challenge with confidence and overcome any temptation that comes our way.

In Janelle’s image, despite the overwhelming attack of arrows from the enemy, the person in the center stands strong, unfazed by the chaos swirling around. Adopted into God’s family, crowned with salvation, and protected by the Lord of Hosts, He can extinguish every flaming arrow that comes our way. And so can we!

How can your faith be your shield today?