STUFF ABOUT GOD AND CHRISTIANITY | Dr. Ron Braley
In part one, we learned that evil is everywhere and that we have protective armor and a spiritual sword. The armor consists of these elements:
• Belt of Truth: Girds us with Christ’s foundational truth.
• Breastplate of Righteousness: God’s standard that keeps us on the narrow path.
• Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: The good news of God’s Kingdom being shared with humanity.
• Shield of Faith: Guards us against fear, doubt and anxiety.
• Helmet of Salvation: Confidence in future rescue for those who seek God’s righteousness.
•Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God that helps discern God’s truth from the lies of the Evil One.
Here, we’ll explore the Shield of Faith, which is built on belief — confidence. The apostle Paul explains this enables us to hold firmly to the unseen aspects of our Christianity, whether through the Spirit or fulfilled prophecies (Hebrews 10:39 and 11:1).
We trust in God and Christ because of what they’ve done, are doing and will do. It’s like this: You strongly believe you’ll get a paycheck because you have received one consistently in the past. But why do we need a Shield of Faith?
A Shield of Faith helps us stay focused on what we know to be true. It enables us to persevere through trials as we pursue the “crown of life” that awaits God’s children (James 1:12). Faith-driven perseverance also builds character and hope (Romans 5:3-4).
Without a heavenly Shield of Faith, we would crumble in despair and doubt, unable to endure life’s struggles. Therefore, we need this shield to overcome difficulties and live spiritually. How do we attain this Shield of Faith?
Experience is essential for developing strong faith, and it can take various forms, such as biblical writings and the proclamation that God’s Kingdom is accessible.
“But these (signs performed by Jesus) have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31).
Also, a healthy fear of God and related knowledge are faith-builders: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10).
In addition, we become stronger in everything through discipline; building faith is no different. Study the Bible. Don’t just read the words — study and seek understanding through prayer. Also, pray regularly to adore and thank God, intercede for yourself and others, and confess sinful behavior. Practice your faith through self-control and charity. And when you lack faith (perhaps due to discouragement, doubt or spiritual immaturity), pray for faith-boosting wisdom (James 1:5-6).
In summary
A Shield of Faith is crucial for overcoming doubt and fear and for fueling our perseverance as we pursue the “crown of life.” It is developed through experiencing God in various ways and through practice.
Next time? Let’s explore the fears of a looming third world war from a biblical perspective.
Blessings and peace.
Braley, a Taylor-based minister, Air Force veteran, husband and father, earned a Master of Divinity degree from Regent University in 2018 and a Doctor of Ministry from the same school in 2021.
