(1Sam 17:46) “This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. (47) “Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’S, and He will give you into our hands.”
David’s understanding his role in the upcoming battle was one thing; but having the assurance of God’s provision and protection was quite another. Anointed with boldness and purpose he knew that God’s delivering power went hand-in-hand with every step he took. Therefore, by faith he declared this battle destined to be the means for letting “all the earth” know that there was a God in Israel.
(Eph 6:16) above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
Although defeated at the cross, the forces of evil still have their own plan of attack. The power of suggestion used by the “spirit” of the world system, if not bound, can destroy lives, families, churches, communities and testimonies. The tactics used by the enemy are designed for the purpose of frustrating and canceling our effectiveness. The enemy of our soul knows the right Fiery “button” to push that he might achieve control over our lives.
The Roman soldier had in his possession a large shield that protected him and those around him from enemy attack. This was especially effective against flaming arrows of pitch descending from above. All soldiers would form a closely packed “turtle” formation and deploy their shields overhead. This would then render the arrow attack ineffective. Likewise, each believer’s shield is individually designed by the Lord to snuff-out even the most clever device the enemy has to offer.
The shield of faith is our resource that has at its very root the hope of our calling. Does our hope cause us to ignore the attack? No! By faith we know the arrows of destruction will be nullified by holding on to our hope in Christ Jesus. He is our anchor. Holding on, we are reaching right into the presence of God Heb 6:19.
(Heb 11:1) Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
As a believer, I must recognize that those things for which I hope and have faith to believe have real substance. By this I understand I can have His protection and His power for victory in every spiritual battle without fear--knowing He is there. When the enemy’s arsenal seems insurmountable, I can know I am a person of purpose. My faith is strengthened and He will always deliver. AMEN!