Chapter 25—A Shield for Defense
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to
quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
Ephesians 6:16
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Satan watches his opportunity to seize the precious graces when we are
unguarded, and we shall have a severe conflict with the powers of darkness
to retain them, or to regain a heavenly grace if through lack of watchfulness
we lose it. But ... it is the privilege of Christians to obtain strength from God
to hold every precious gift. Fervent and effectual prayer will be regarded in
heaven. When the servants of Christ take the shield of faith for their defense,
and the sword of the Spirit for war, there is danger in the enemy’s camp.
Amidst the snares to which all are exposed, they need strong and
trustworthy defenses on which to rely. Many in this corrupt age have so small
a supply of the grace of God, that in many instances their defense is broken
down by the first assault, and fierce temptations take them captives. The
shield of grace can preserve all unconquered by the temptations of the enemy,
though surrounded with the most corrupting influences. By firm principle,
and unwavering trust in God, their virtue and nobleness of character can
shine, and, although surrounded with evil, no taint need be left upon their
virtue and integrity.
The work of conquering evil is to be done through faith. Those who go
into the battlefield will find that they must put on the whole armor of God.
The shield of faith will be their defense and will enable them to be more than
conquerors. Nothing else will avail but this—faith in the Lord of hosts, and
obedience to His orders. Vast armies furnished with every other facility will
avail nothing in the last great conflict. Without faith, an angel host could
not help. Living faith alone will make them invincible and enable them to
stand in the evil day, steadfast, unmovable, holding the beginning of their
confidence firm unto the end.
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