We may not see the use of traditional ancient shields as very practical. However, if we were to update the concept, would you understand bulletproof vests and Kevlar plates? After the events at Stoneman-Douglas High School, the sale of bulletproof panel inserts and bulletproof backpacks has spiked. If you thought there was a legitimate possibility that you or someone you love would be shot at, how durable would you want the armor to be? We know Satan fires high velocity tracer rounds at us every day (Eph. 6:16, updated). Like Kevlar, everyone’s faith is at a different level of protection. Unlike Kevlar, everyone can do things to make their faith more resistant. At what level of protection is your faith, or the faith of your loved one, rated?
Do not mistake a milk toast “meh” belief for real bedrock faith. The two could not be more opposite. Please understand that belief is a start. “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” (Acts 8:37). It is not the end though, for “the demons also believe and shudder” (Jas. 2:19). Belief must grow to a rock solid defensive faith. There are ways to make that happen.
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:17). We must get plugged into the word of Christ for our faith to grow in usefulness. It is the word that Christ has spoken that will judge us on the last day (John 12:48-50). We will not be judged by the word of the atheist that cries foul at the mention of faith. We will not be judged by the word of the skeptic that seeks to poke holes in the faith of some. These are all schemes of the wicked one. He is still calling out, “You shall not surely die” (Gen. 3:4). Do not allow him to erode your faith through these various outlets.
A strong faith is also grown by its use. “I will you show you my faith by my works” should be our motivation (Jas. 2:18). We see this concept in action throughout the Bible. It is showcased in Hebrews chapter 11. The faith of those from long ago shines to show how the faith of the church must take action. Faith plus obedience equals righteousness. The more that our faith grows, the more we continue to act rightly and have our lives guided by our Father. It is in that relationship that our faith grows. We must be ready.
When our faith grows, the arrows come. Satan will attack and continue to attack. We must be ready. We must stay tuned into the word of God and continue to be vigilant to obey His commands. David spoke of God in this way, “For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield” (Psa. 5:12). A man who understood war had faith in God as a refuge for the righteous.