Day 21 — Shield, Helmet, Sword

“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

— Ephesians 6:16–17 (BSB)

Today we’ll look at the last three pieces of the armor of God.

The shield of faith. Roman soldiers carried big, tall shields, almost as tall as a person. Before a battle, they would soak their shields in water. Why? Because enemies shot flaming arrows! When a burning arrow hit a wet shield, the fire went out.

The devil shoots “flaming arrows” at us too. Arrows of doubt: Does God really care? Arrows of fear: Something terrible is going to happen. Arrows of temptation: Just do it, it’ll be fun. Arrows of accusation: You’re worthless.

Faith is our shield. Faith means trusting God and believing what He says. When a flaming arrow comes, you hold up your shield: I trust God. I believe His promises. And the fire goes out.

The helmet of salvation. A helmet protects your head, and your head is where your thoughts are. The devil loves to attack our thoughts. The helmet of salvation reminds us that we belong to Jesus. We are saved, forgiven and safe in Him forever. When you know that, it protects your mind from fear and doubt.

The sword of the Spirit. This is the only piece of armor that’s for attacking, not just defending. And Paul tells us exactly what it is: “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Remember when Jesus was tempted in the wilderness? Every time the devil tempted Him, Jesus answered with Scripture: “It is written…” That’s using the sword of the Spirit! The more Bible verses you know, the sharper your sword is.

And right after the armor, Paul adds one more thing: “Pray in the Spirit at all times” (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer is how a soldier stays in touch with his commander. It’s like the radio that connects you to headquarters.

Now your armor is complete! Belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet and sword, plus prayer to keep you connected to God.

Think about it: What “flaming arrows” does the devil shoot at kids your age? How could the shield of faith put them out?

Try this: Finish labeling your soldier. Then, tomorrow morning, “put on” each piece of armor in prayer as you get dressed.

Dear God, thank You for the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, Your Word. Help me hold up my shield when the devil attacks, protect my mind with the truth that I’m saved, and learn Your Word so I can use it. Help me pray at all times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.