Active Armor (Ephesians 6:16-17 [18])

In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, [¹⁸praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.] —Ephesians 6:16-17 [18]

These verses teach us about the remaining pieces of the armor of God: the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.

Note in vv. 14-15, Paul says “having put on” the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoesObserve prepared with the gospel. Those remain fastened in place. But these three are different. Here Paul says “take up” the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. There is a sense of activity. The soldier exercises discretion in his use of the shield, helmet, and sword.

Consider what we must actively take up:

The Shield of Faith

What is the faith that shields us in the fight? Since we know that the armor of God is for believers, the shield of faith must be the deep assurance that comes from steady, daily trust in the promises of God. As God works sanctification within us, our faith grows. Christians will be working out their faith daily, in moment by moment union with Christ, dependent upon God (Philippians 2:12-13).

Taking up the shield of faith enables us to withstand all the fiery arrows of Satan’s accusations that tempt us to despair and turn our gaze away from our Savior. The Roman soldier’s shield was large, roughly 4 x 2.5 feet. It was covered with leather that the soldier would soak in water before battle in order to extinguish any flaming arrows that would strike. So it is with the shield of faith. When Satan lets fly his fiery arrows, take up the shield of faith, looking to your Savior’s finished work on your behalf, and stand fast.

The Helmet of Salvation

The Roman soldier’s helmet was a cap made of thick leather that was easy to put  on. It wasn’t bulky metal like medieval armor. Paul tells us to take up the helmet of salvation as protection for our minds. Our salvation in Christ Jesus has freed us from the power of sin and the onslaughts of Satan. Because of Christ, we are justified before the heavenly Father. He has given us the Holy Spirit who teaches, guides, and nurtures us in God’s wisdom. Scripture says, “we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16) and “…in [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Knowing Him is essential so that “no one may delude you with plausible arguments” (Colossians 2:3-4).

The Sword of the Spirit

Oh glorious, exquisite aid for our soul’s fight: the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God! Our only offensive weapon comes from the Holy Spirit who gives the Word of God and inspires it. The Spirit teaches us God’s wisdom and truth as we read, memorize, study, and obey God’s Word. Take it up and stand. Daily be in your Bible, soaking up the promises of God, placing His sword in your hand to wield against the enemy. Follow Jesus’ example who, when tempted by Satan in the wilderness, countered with “It is written…” (see Matthew 4:1-11).

Satan's lies against us cannot prevail when they are subjected to the Word of God. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). Never be without your sword.

The Prayer Warrior

The armor of God is essential as we pray. Our battle is not against flesh and blood, it is spiritual. In every prayer—and especially in intercessory prayer for the lost, our world, our church, and our homes—do not be afraid, doubtful, or despairing. Put on the whole armor of God and persevere when the evil one’s flaming arrows start to fly.

Persevere when your faith is tested and you are tempted to doubt that God will answer your prayers. Be alert! Watch and pray! Pray God's Word back to Him in your prayers. Pray at all times in the Spirit, and trust our King. He is Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Dear Christian, never forget that you belong to the One who has been given all authority in heaven and on earth.

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For Reflection

1. In meditating on Ephesians 6:10-18, what have you found most helpful for your present situation?

2. According to these verses, why is the armor of God essential in prayer?

3. How does knowing that our battle is not against flesh and blood affect your treatment of and prayers for those who persecute you for the sake of Christ?