Simply Using the Shield of Faith

“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” –Ephesians 6:16

Raising three boys, I occasionally find myself playing a vicious little game called Laser Tag. My favorite strategy is to find a dark corner with a wall to hide behind that has a small peephole. Then I can just sit there and play sniper until my husband and boys come looking for me. (They always do—I’m an easy target—many, quick points! I sometimes suspect it’s why they want me to play.)

The last time I played, however, a different teenager found me. I’d never seen this kid before, but he had me in his sight—point blank! He paused to savor the moment, loudly yelling, “Ah ha!”

What was a girl to do?

My reflexes took over. I simply put my hand up in front of his laser. He pulled the trigger, but the kill didn’t register. My hand was in the way.

Perplexed, the boy started to argue, “You can’t do that!”

But I did.

Then I shot him.

Then I ran!

Laser tag’s not supposed to be lethal.

But I think it would have been that day!

When Satan has us in his sight at point blank range, he wants us to believe it’s all over—that he’s rendered us powerless. But all we have to do is raise our hand to heaven and call on God in faith. Not only will God block the flaming arrows, but He’ll also fight for us (Exodus 14:14).

Satan may yell, “Hey! You can’t do that!”

But you can—God wants you to!

Then you can run safely away.

Thank You, Lord! You are strong and You are here and You want to fight to protect me. Remind me to use my shield of faith, calling on You first, whenever there’s a need. With You on my side, I’m safe. Amen!