Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one."
Text: Ephesians 6:16
THE ALL-IMPORTANT APPLICATION OF OUR FAITH
The focus on the application of faith is most compelling. The apostle Peter, while using a different metaphor also emphasized the place of the role of faith. In his first general epistle, Peter wrote.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil
walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same
sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
1 PETER 5:8-9
1. Satan’s directing of fiery darts
Paul’s metaphor was that of the wicked one directing the salvo of fiery darts aimed towards the army of the Lord (Cf. Ephesians 6:16). The best defence was to raise up the shield of faith when the fiery darts fly thick and fast.
2. Satan as a roaring lion
Peter’s metaphor was just as grim. The evil one is personally involved. He stalks his victims. He would not hesitate to pounce on those who are not alert. Peter offered this word of advice:-
a) Practise sobriety
b) Exercise Vigilance
c) Offer Resistance
d) Be steadfast in faith
The place of faith is obvious! Faith is of utmost importance. Paul emphasized the importance of faith when he wrote, “above all” (“en pasin”). Whatever else we must do, we must ever exercise faith in our battles against the wicked one.
MORE ABOUT “FIERY DARTS”
This phrase could refer to a number of things that the wicked one could hurl against the army of God. Peter offers an insight as to what one of those darts could be.
Knowing that the same sufferings are experienced
by your brotherhood in the world.
1 PETER 5:9B
As much as fiery darts cause much suffering, we are drawn to consider what Peter suggests. The wicked one can bring untold suffering on people. Many succumb when they have to undergo suffering. Faith can help us be overcomers amidst great suffering!