Pick up Your Shield
Sunday, November 16
2 Samuel 8:5-7 (NKJV)
“When the Syrians of Damascus came to help Hadadezer king of Zobah, David killed twenty-two thousand of the Syrians. Then David put garrisons in Syria of Damascus; and the Syrians became David’s servants, and brought tribute. So the LORD preserved David wherever he went. And David took the shields of gold that had belonged to the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem.”
Devotion
This week Pastor Franklin challenged us to take up our shield of faith, to stand strong and firm against the wiles of the enemy, against a culture that defies God. He warned us that we are not to take our role in spiritual warfare lightly, we are not to lay our shields down, not to cater to weakness and temptations.
The use of a shield is twofold. It is a weapon of defense but can also be used offensively in close combat to strike the enemy. The shields that we carry as Christians are built on our faith in God, His promises, provision, and protection. It is a daily decision to trust in God over circumstances. Our Shields block attacks of doubt and fear, as well as confusion and condemnation. We must hold fast and gird ourselves in the armor of God. Faith believes in God’s forgiveness, mercy, and victory.
Without our own shield of faith, we can do nothing in the Kingdom of God. Without God we can do nothing of value eternally in our own power. That said, shields represent a significant transfer of power.
Where in your life do you need to take up your shield?
While the shields that David brought back to Jerusalem were trophies of his military victory, they also show the permanence of God's Hand of support. The trophies from the victories that God has given you in the past can become weapons of faith to win battles in the present. They are a reminder that God grants us success and protection through His presence. Shields therefore direct our eyes to be on God and move us toward worship.
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your armor that You have given me, and for the victory Jesus provided through the Cross and Resurrection. I also thank You for Your presence surrounding me as a shield (Psalm 3:3). You have given me everything I need to be victorious. Please teach me how to use what You have provided so I may be strong in faith, stand in Your armor, and be immovable in Your might. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
1 Corinthians 15:57 tells us, “But thanks be to God, who always causes us to triumph through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Look to reinforce any area of weakness by meditating on Scripture. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). This will help you reinforce your shield.
Resources
- Join us this morning at 9 AM & 11 AM ET for uplifting worship and a powerful message! Stream live on Free Chapel Facebook, right here on the App, and YouTube. Don’t miss it!