Devotionals

Going to War Part 3

by Dr. Brenda Robinson

May 16, 2011

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.”

We are still on our journey of studying the importance of how to use our armor. In Roman times, the shield covered the full body. It was made of thick wood that absorbed and held water, or metal that was covered with leather that had been soaked in water. The wet wood or leather would extinguish the fiery arrows of the enemy, and the shield protected the soldier’s body from the penetration of the arrows.

The shield of faith protects us from death, gives us eternal life and makes us pleasing to the Commander in Chief. It should be used in every battle when fiery darts are coming our way, and when we want to win the battle. A Roman soldier with a water drenched shield would simply kneel and hold his shield over himself, and he would be protected. Our faith works the same way, quenching the enemy’s fiery darts. To win the war, we must take up the shield of faith. God responds to our faith, not our fears.

The helmet, in Roman times, was also made of leather, with leather plates at the temples and forehead. The helmet of salvation serves to remind us to whom we belong, what the Commander in Chief has done for us and that we are free from bondage. We should use the helmet of salvation in battle for our confidence, courage and deliverance.

The Bible teaches us that once we have taken up the helmet of salvation, nothing can separate us from the Father’s love and nothing can pluck us from the Father’s hand. The helmet of salvation Paul speaks of in Ephesians does not refer only to being born again. He also refers to the position we hold through salvation. God will daily deliver and rescue those who belong to Him.

Is anything separating you from the Father’s love today? Perhaps you left behind your helmet of salvation.