The Shield of Faith: Quenching Every Fiery Dart
“Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Ephesians 6:16). The phrase “above all” carries weight — the shield of faith holds a unique place in the believer’s tools.
What Kind of Shield?
The Greek word thureos refers to a large, door-shaped shield used by Roman infantry — about 4 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide, covering the entire body. These shields were covered in leather and soaked in water before battle so that flaming arrows would extinguish on contact.
What Are the Fiery Darts?
- Lies — about God, about yourself, about others
- Doubt — “Did God really say?”
- Fear — of the future, of failure, of rejection
- Temptation — sudden urges to sin
- Accusation — reminders of past failures
- Discouragement — the weight that makes you want to quit
Faith — trusting what God has said — extinguishes every single one.
Faith Is Active
The shield of faith is something you actively take up and hold. The Greek suggests continuous action — keep taking up the shield, keep holding it forward. Faith is not the absence of doubt; it’s choosing to trust God despite the doubt.
Speak these when the darts fly: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1).