God gives us instructions on how to deal with our everyday lives and prepares us for battle with the enemy. Ephesians 6:13-18 lists the six pieces of the Christian warrior’s armor that allows us to stand strong and live victoriously.

The fourth piece of God’s divine armor is The Shield of Faith. In verse 16 Paul informs us that this particular piece of armor is very important for he says, “above all taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

In our fight of faith we need to connect with others who have faith against the fiery attacks of the adversary (Phil. 1:27). "When the church unites in faith even the gates of hell cannot stand against it and it can take over the territory of the enemy" (Mt. 16:16-19).

Satan shoots at God’s children with flaming missiles including hatred, pride, selfishness, discouragement, lies, fears, unbelief, worries, anger, and envy. Satan desires to take over our minds and keep us distracted so that we are unable to move forward on the positive things that God has in store for us if we are able to focus and remain obedient to His will for our lives.

So what is the shield of faith? What does it mean to us? The definition of this faith is absolute confidence in God. This faith shield gives us power to block Satan’s blazing arrows. 2 Samuel 22:31 affirms “As for the Lord, His way is blameless. The Word of the Lord is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” God is the object of our faith. He is our shield. Faith is trusting completely and unconditionally in God and His Word. When we have such faith,God and our obedience to His Word protects us.

How did Jesus extinguish the fiery missiles of Satan, the father of lies? He answered each shot with the Word of God. “It is written” you can read when Satan tempted Jesus in Matthew chapter 4: verses 1-11. Every time you truly read and study the Word, listen to a sermon and apply it to your life, or memorize a Scripture you strengthen your shield of faith. “Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17).

When you find yourself being attacked by blazing missiles of disappointment, jealousy, anger, lies and the adversities of life, continue to maintain and strengthen your faith in God and demonstrate it by obedience to His Word and your Shield of Faith will keep you protected from going astray and giving into these nonproductive actions or attitudes.

God Bless!