Ephesians 6:17 - Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Continuing this week with The Armor of God...

In battle the helmet protects the vulnerable head. The "helmet of salvation" is not referring to attaining salvation. Rather, it reminds us that no matter how daunting the current situation is, the ultimate salvation is yours. You are protected. So put it on daily in confidence, with gratitude and thanksgiving.

Most of the pieces of armor are defensive, yet the sword of the Spirit is the only offensive weapon in the believer's armor. God's Word is your sword. Train with it by staying in the Word so that you may be ready in your days of battle.

Ephesians 6:16 - Take up the shield of faith

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Faith in this context is the firm confidence in the Lord and in His Word. For, "Every word of God proves true and He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection." (Proverbs 30:5)

Flaming arrows could not penetrate the fireproof shield of the Roman soldiers. Their shields were constructed in such a way to defeat this threat.

Paul tells us to protect ourselves when temptation strikes by using the shield of faith. Sin strikes when we let down our shield.