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The Shield, Helmet, and Sword (Armor of God—part 2)

Yesterday, we discussed the first three components of the Armor of God. Today, let’s dive into the next three—the Shield of Faith, the Helmet of Salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit.

Shield of Faith
For the soldier, the shield provided a great amount of protection from attacks. It wasn’t something he put on like the helmet, belt, or breastplate, but something he must “take up.” Much like a soldier, we’re required to do our part with our shield of faith. We can’t just secure it to our arm. We must “take it up” and stand on our faith so that we can be protected from the spiritual darts. What are those darts? Anything Satan throws at us that’s contrary to God’s truth. We’re given a “measure of faith” (Romans 12:3), and as we trust in Him, our faith grows. Exercising our faith in God, His truth, and His promises, protects us like a shield protects a soldier from arrows or bullets. Because the enemy comes at us with lies, insults, and temptations, we can fight off his darts and arrows with our shield of faith. 

Helmet of Salvation
For the soldier, the helmet was always the last part he put on. The helmet in any armor is the most vital for it protects the head. Wearing the helmet of salvation keeps us safe from the lies and schemes of Satan. The enemy wants us to doubt and wonder if God loves us or if we’re even saved. This helmet protects our minds from such attacks. When discouragement comes our way, we can find hope and comfort in knowing that Jesus has saved us from the penalty of sin and given the hope of eternal life through Him. 

Sword of the Spirit
For the soldier, the sword was used defensively but was also his only offensive weapon. While the soldier had all of the other pieces of armor on, without a sword, he would have just been a body covered in metal. The Sword of the Spirit is God’s Word and both a protector for us and a destroyer of Satan. Hebrews 4:12-13 describes the Bible as “living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword.” We can wield our swords by claiming God’s Word when we’re in a spiritual battle because it cuts to the core and uncovers God’s truth. Jesus used God’s Word when He was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, and we should do it, too. We have to know God’s Word in order to know how to use it so that we can be victorious. Swords dull over time but for the believer in Jesus, regularly studying God’s Word will sharpen it.