GIDEON (Complete Study: Judges 6-8)

Who is Gideon in the Bible and what can we learn from him? First, we’ll examine what is written (Judges 6-8), then we’ll investigate the depth beyond the surface, and then we’ll formulate a final analysis from our discoveries. 

[6:1] Midian was the son of Abraham and Keturah (Gen 25:1-2). Prior to his death, Abraham left all to Isaac and sent Midian to the land of the East (Gen 25:5-6). Midianites were largely antagonistic (Num 22-25). Moses was commanded to war against them for revenge (Num 31). Though victories against them were celebrated elsewhere (Ps 83:9; Isa 9:4; 10:26; Hab 3:7), here GOD used the Midianites as judgment against Israel because “Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord.”

[6:3] Amalekites descended from Esau, thus related to the Edomites (Gen 36:12,16). Historical relations between Israel and the Amalekites was that of perpetual hostility (Ex 17:8-16; Deut 25:17-19; 1Sam 15:1-9; 27:8; 30:16-20; Esther 3:1).

[6:6] Seeking the Lord shouldn’t be our last resort, but our first response (Matt 6:33).

[6:8] “A prophet.” Nameless. Unknown. He was seemingly insignificant yet he was significantly more obedient than the Israelites, which made him significant. Are you willing to act in faithful obedience to the Lord even if you never get credit for the good work you do?

[6:10] Amorites are the descendants of Canaan (Gen 15:21; Ex 3:8,17; 23:23; Neh 9:8). Israel did not obey GOD. Sin is cyclical: apostasy – do evil; subjugation – judgment; supplication – cry out for help; salvation – GOD delivers through a judge. Reminiscent of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years because they kept returning to their sins, the cycle continues as a dog returning to lap up its own vomit (Deut 2:2-3; Prov 26:11; 2Pet 2:20-22).

[6:11] Gideon was hiding, fearful, yet still had a fighting spirit, refusing to starve to death. The angel of the Lord came to Gideon while he was threshing in an empty winepress. Was Gideon the only one actively seeking out a solution? Is that why he was chosen? A winepress without wine is symbolic for judgment (Job 24:11; Jer 48:33; Isa 16:10; see also, Isa 63:1-6; Rev 14:19-20; 19:15). Why judgment? The people of Israel did evil (6:1). Gideon’s name גִּדְעוֹן [H1439] giḏʿôn (ghid-ohn’) comes from the verb גָּדַע [H1438] gāḏaʿ (gaw-dah’), which means to cut, hew, chop down, or cut off, to fell a tree, or generally to destroy something; hence, Gideon would be one who would cut down something/someone (6:25-27; 8:17,21).

[6:12] Though Gideon was hiding, he wasn’t hidden from the Lord (Jer 17:10; 23:24; Ps 139; Heb 4:13). Though hiding in fear, GOD declared him to be גִּבּוֹר [H1368] gibôr (ghib-bore’), which means strong or mighty. GOD also declared him to be חַיִל [H2428] ḥayil (khah’-yeel), which means force, army, ability, or efficiency. In other words, GOD declared Gideon to be a warrior who is able.

[6:14] YHWH “turned” to him. “Turned” is פָנָה [H6437] pānâ (paw-naw’), which means GOD faced him, showing him respect. Go in his might? “Might” is כֹּחַ [H3581] kōacḥ (ko’-akh), which means ability through human strength and power of GOD; in other words, GOD will empower and enable, but it will require your free choice and effort. This same word is used in Deut 8:18 to remind the Israelites not to boast of their own strength, “for it is He who is giving you power.”

[6:15] Like Moses (Ex 3:11; 4:10) and Jeremiah (Jer 1:6), Gideon felt inadequate and insecure, but GOD chose him anyway. Who we perceive ourselves to be doesn’t matter if GOD declares us to be someone else (Gen 32:28; Matt 16:18-19). Who else was the least? David (1Sam 16:11; 17:28), Israel (Deut 5:15; Neh 4:1-5), Bethlehem (Mic 5:2; Matt 2:6), and even Jesus because of Galilee (John 1:46; 7:41-42,52). So, what matters? (1) Were you chosen by GOD? (2) Were you sent by GOD? (3) Is the Lord with you? If 1 & 2 = yes, then 3 = yes. And if 1, 2, 3 = yes, then 4 should also be yes. (4) Are you willing to act in obedience? If GOD is for us, who can be against us (Ex 33:15-16; Ps 23:4; 118:6; Rom 8:31)?

[6:16] “I will be with you.” The “I will be” is אֶהְיֶ֖ה [H1961] ehyeh (‘eh-yeh), which means was, came, has been, to be, exist, will become, come to pass. It is the “let there be” of creation in the beginning. In Ex 3:12, “I will be.” In Ex 3:14, “ehyeh” is “I AM”! Thus, “I was, I am, and will be.” But who is the great “I AM” who was, is, and will be? Jesus is declared to be the great I AM (John 8:12,58; 14:6; Heb 13:8; Col 1:15-17; Rev 21:6; 22:13). Who then is “the angel of the Lord’?

[6:21] In 6:17, Gideon asks for a sign in order to know it’s truly Him. Him? Who is He? In 6:12, “the angel of the Lord” told Gideon that יְהוָֹה [H3068] YHWH was with him. In 6:14-16, YHWH turned to Gideon and spoke to Gideon. But in 6:15, Gideon responds to אֲדֹנָי [H136] ăḏōnāy (ad-o-nigh’), which means “Lord,” but is a title spoken in place of YHWH in a Jewish display of reverence. In 6:16, YHWH says “ehyeh” (I will be with you). But then in 6:17, Gideon asks for a sign to know if he is speaking with YHWH. And 6:18-21 reveals that Gideon spoke with the angel of the Lord, the One under the tree (6:11,19). But how was he speaking to the angel of the Lord if he was speaking to YHWH? And if YHWH – who is invisible – revealed Himself as the angel of the Lord, what was His appearance? Not only was Gideon unafraid (6:12-13), but he needed a sign to believe. But don’t most people typically become frightened when they see an angel? At the very least, the awesomeness of Holiness produces fear just as Gideon expressed in 6:22. [See also, Ex 3:6; Num 22:23-34; Judg 13:22; 2Kng 19:35; 1Chr 21:16,30; Matt 28:3-5; Luke 1:12-13; 2:9-10; Acts 12:23.] And Gideon, who was generally fearful at this point in the story (6:11,27; 7:10-11) wasn’t afraid of the angel of the Lord. So, did the angel of the Lord look like an average man? It seems so. At least until He vanished (6:21). But then after the angel of the Lord vanished, YHWH told Gideon not to fear and he shall not die (6:23). But if he was still talking to YHWH after the angel of the Lord vanished, they must be two separate persons. However, why promise Gideon that he wouldn’t die if he only saw an angel and not YHWH Himself? In Ex 33:20, YHWH told Moses, “You cannot see My face, for no man can see Me and live!” But where is it written that those who see an angel will die? Or was Gideon fearful of dying due to unintentional irreverence for that which is holy (Num 4:19; 2Sam 6:6-7)? But in Gen 32:24, Jacob wrestled with a “man” אֱנוֹשׁ [H582] ‘ĕnôšh (en-ohsh’) yet in Gen 32:30, Jacob said he saw “God” אֱלהִים [H430] ĕlōhîm (el-o-heem’) face to face. So, did Gideon also see a man-God face to face? This is the same description king Nebuchadnezzar gave when he saw a fourth person in the fire with Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, saying “the fourth is like a son of the gods!” So, who is this mysterious man-God? And is this mysterious man-God also the angel of the Lord? At times the angel of the Lord seems to be YHWH or equal in Holiness to YHWH, yet at other times, they seem to be two different persons. So, who is the angel of the Lord? That will be an investigation for a later time.

[6:25-26] The verb gāḏaʿ from which Gideon got his name (see notes for 6:11) is seen in Deut 7:5; 12:3; 2Chr 14:3; 31:1; 34:4, where idols are cut down and destroyed. Thus, Gideon’s very name is GOD’s promise of judgment! Ironically, a bull – which often represents Baal – was used to pull Baal down. Also, the Asherim – which is wood – was used for a burnt offering to the One true GOD, YHWH, the great I AM (ehyeh). And Asherah (wood) was used to burn the bull (Baal). Thus, two false gods were destroyed by GOD’s Holy fire.

[6:27] Even though Gideon was afraid, he still acted in obedience. It was his obedience, not the burnt offering, that pleased GOD (1Sam 15:22-23; Hos 6:6; Ps 51:16-17; Prov 21:3; Isa 1:11-20; Matt 21:28-32). Only later would the significance of ineffective sacrifices be understood through divine revelation (Heb 10:1-18).

[6:28-32] “The men of the town” – many were Israelites! Hence, 6:1 – they did evil. Deut 13:6-11 says idolaters should die, yet they – the idolaters – wanted to kill an obedient man of GOD. Woe to them (Isa 5:20). Praise be to Joash for standing his ground against the crowd (Acts 5:29; Gal 1:10; Eph 6:6; 1Thes 2:4). Gideon became known as “Jerubbaal” יְרֻבַּעַל [H3378] Yerubbaal (yer-oob-bah’-al). Essentially, Gideon became an enemy against Baal, Asherah, and all idols and false gods. It is my prayer that I may be so blessed to be known as Jerubbaal, for I wage war against the adversary, who wages war against GOD (Matt 6:24; 1Kng 18:21; Josh 24:15; 1Cor 10:21; Jms 4:4). It is for this reason Christians are not of this world and hated by the world (John 15:18-20; 17:14-18).

[6:34] When did the Spirit come upon Gideon? After he chose to act in obedience, but before the enemy could attack. “Spirit” is רוּחַ [H7307] rûacḥ (roo’-akh), which means as breath, like wind, which animates or moves to action, inspiring, imparting, impelling. This same Spirit was involved in creation (Gen 1:2) and sustains life (Gen 6:3,17), empowering and enabling the vessels (Num 11:17,25,29). “Clothed” is לָבַשׁ [H3847] lāḇašh (law-bash’), which means to be clothed, put on, wear, to come upon, wrap around. In Gen 3:21, Adam and Eve were clothed with animal skin/fur, or flesh/world, which represents sin. Being clothed with Spirit foreshadows Pentecost (Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:1-41; 10:44-48), walking by the Spirit (John 15:26; 16:7-15; Rom 8:14; Gal 4:6; 5:16-25) into glorification (1Cor 15:50-57; Rev 21-22).

[6:34-35] Many were called. We are not alone in this war even if we feel that way (1Kng 19:14-18; 2Kng 6:16-17).

[6:36] Gideon was full of doubt and fear, yet he sought the Lord. Seek and find (Deut 4:29; 2Chr 15:1-4; Jer 29:11-13; Matt 7:7-11; Acts 17:27). Draw near to GOD and GOD will draw near to you (Ps 145:17-20; Mal 3:7; James 4:6-10). But why did he doubt after 6:21? Like Elijah, Gideon became public enemy #1 (1Kng 19:1-4,10). Unlike Elijah, Gideon had an army (6:34-35). Yet he was still afraid. “If.” If? All things are possible for GOD (Gen 18:14; Job 42:2; Jer 32:17,27; Zech 8:6; Matt 19:26; Mark 9:23; 10:27; Luke 1:37; 18:27; John 11:40).

[6:37] Why wool? It was common, but may be symbolic. Wool is from sheep, Jesus was the sacrificial Lamb (Isa 53:7; John 1:29,36; Acts 8:32; Rom 3:24-25; Heb 10:10-14; 1Pet 1:19; 1John 2:2; 4:10; Rev 5:6,12-13; 7:10,17; 12:11; 13:8), whiteness of wool describes purity of sins forgiven (Isa 1:18; Rev 7:14), and the hair of the Ancient of Days (Dan 7:9), who is Jesus (Rev 1:14). But Jesus is also Shepherd and we’re His sheep (Ps 23:1; Isa 40:11; Ezek 34:23,31; Mic 5:4; Mark 6:34; John 10:1-16; Heb 13:20; 1Pet 2:25; Rev 7:17). So, it may represent the Shepherd seeing and caring for His sheep. But why on the threshing floor? Again, may be symbolic. Matt 3:12 describes Jesus as the Lord of the Harvest and how He will clear the threshing floor, gathering His wheat but burning the chaff with unquenchable fire. The wicked are likened to worthless chaff (Ps 35:5; Isa 33:11; Dan 2:35).

[6:37-40] Perhaps Gideon reasoned the first sign was natural, so he asked for the opposite, which would be supernatural. Many ignorant Christians view this “laying out the fleece” as a faith formula, but it’s actually a lack of faith. That’s why Gideon requested for GOD’s anger not to burn against him (as GOD did with Moses; Ex 4:14). Gideon already received his sign in 6:21. Visible signs are unnecessary if they only confirm what we already know is true. He already had GOD’s Word (6:14,16) and experienced the Spirit (6:34). Likewise, we already have GOD’s Word (2Tim 3:16-17) and received the Spirit (Eph 1:13-14; 4:30; 1Thes 5:19), so we don’t need a sign if we’ve already been told what to do. Examples: we don’t need a sign to confirm that we should forgive others (Matt 6:14-15) or make disciples (Matt 28:19-20). With that in mind, Gideon never needed a sign to pull down the altar of Baal and cut down the Asherim because he already had GOD’s Word on the matter (Ex 23:23-24,32-33; 34:11-16; Num 25:3-5; Deut 11:26-28; 12:2-4, 28-32; 18:9; 30:15-20; Josh 24:14-28). However, Gideon struggled with doubts, fears, and insecurities (6:13,15). Gideon’s desire to “test” נָסָה [H5254] nāsâ (naw-saw’) GOD, meaning to try, put to the test, or to prove, seems to violate Mosaic Law (Deut 6:16); however, he had pure intentions with obedience in mind for the outcome. Though he lacked faith and was filled with fear, his request was respectful, hoping to increase faith. And just as GOD tested Israel (Judg 2:22; 3:1), GOD was simultaneously testing Gideon, who already passed one test (6:27). The Israelites, however, had seen multiple miracles and yet still grumbled while they tested GOD even though they didn’t need to put GOD to the test (Ex 15:24; 16:2-12; 17:1-7; Num 14,16; Ps 78, 106; 1Cor 10:5-11; Heb 3:7-11). So, the forbidden “test” is always connected with disbelief, having disobedience and rebellion in mind. The circumstance is dependent upon prior experiences and current understanding (Isa 7:12-13; Matt 4:7; Mark 9:24; Acts 5:9; 1Cor 6:5). Gideon had no prior experience and was trying to understand (5:31; 6:1,13). When GOD granted Gideon’s two tests, He eliminated excuses while increasing Gideon’s faith. But with increased faith from a new testimony of GOD’s faithfulness, the expectation for obedience also increases because to whom much is given much will be required (Luke 12:47-48). Ideally, instead of “laying out the fleece,” Christians should respond enthusiastically to what GOD has already spoken (Isa 6:8; Mark 1:18-20).

[7:2-3] Too many people? GOD granted Gideon’s request for two signs in order to increase his faith and prepare him for this moment. With doubt regarding his calling now eliminated, Gideon knows obedience will be required. If he was afraid before, now his fear would be multiplied by 22,000 because that’s how many people returned home and would not fight with him. But GOD was gracious and provided reasoning: He is preventing Israel from boasting. Ironically, GOD allowed all who were fearful to return home except Gideon, who was still afraid. The others didn’t witness the angel of the Lord and fire from the rock (6:21), nor did they experience the Spirit (6:34) or witness two signs (6:36-40). But Gideon did. He is without excuse. In addition to prevention of boasting, GOD also prevented infection of fear within the army (Deut 20:5-8). Perspective: were the others blessed because they didn’t have to fight in battle? After all, they would go home to their wives, children, and not die on the battlefield. Or was Gideon blessed because he was GOD’s chosen vessel even though he would have to fight in battle? Many believe they’re blessed if they escape the battle. But are they? Truly? 22,000 people were nameless, yet everyone now knows who Gideon is! Everyone wants the glory, but they don’t want the battlefield story. You’ll never be a reason for victorious celebration unless you participated in the war.

[7:4-8] Still too many people. GOD chose 300 who brought water to their mouths with their hands. Significance? Perhaps they were more alert and ready to counter an attack than those on their knees with their faces in the water. Regardless, the point is that the victory will come from GOD’s power, not man’s might. In 6:34-35, many were called. Yet now, few are chosen (Matt 22:14). Gideon asked for two signs; in return, GOD twice reduced his army. Gideon wanted to be doubly sure and now GOD wants him to be doubly obedient according to his double assurance. Noteworthy is that Gideon did act twice in obedience to take the people to the water and send many home. It takes great faith in GOD to send home thousands and only fight with 300. For this reason Gideon is listed in the Hall of Faith (Heb 11:32).

[7:9-11] GOD told Gideon that if he’s afraid, have his servant go with him; Purah went with him; therefore, Gideon was afraid. True courage is not being fearless; rather, it’s taking action to do what’s right despite being afraid. 22,000 men had the opportunity to act in courage yet they chose to become nameless cowards. Why was this servant named? “Purah” פֻרָה [H6513] purâ (poo-raw’) means a branch, implying fruitfulness. Jesus is the Branch (Isa 4:2; 11:1-5; 53:2; Jer 23:5; 30:9; 33:15-16; Zech 3:8; 6:12-13). Jesus was also the suffering Servant (Isa 42:1-7; 49:1-7; 50:4-10; 52:13-53:12; John 13:5-17; Phil 2:5-8). So, are you afraid? Do not fear, for the Lord will be with you (Matt 18:20; 28:20; Acts 18:10).

[7:11-14] The enemy is “in abundance” and “without number.” Reminiscent of Joshua and Caleb’s experience of spying out the land, Gideon observes a seemingly impossible victory. But through GOD’s power, the Lord sowed a dream in the mind of a soldier, who then sowed that dream into his comrade, which then grew to be fear within their hearts, causing them to prophecy victory for Gideon. Barley grain had only half the value of wheat, and the bread made from it was considered inferior. Gideon was the inferior barely. Crossroad: Gideon came this far. Would he complete the mission and be like Joshua and Caleb and trust in the Lord or be like the Israelites who allowed themselves to be filled with fear and acted faithlessly and wickedly by desiring to stone Joshua and Caleb to death for their faith (Num 14:6-10)?

[7:15-17] Gideon responded with worship. Christians should always respond with worship to seemingly impossible outcomes or unfavorable scenarios (2Sam 12:19-20; Dan 3:16-18,28; 6:7-10; Acts 16:22-26). What happens after worship? We get emboldened by faith and empowered by the Spirit. And so, emboldened, Gideon stepped into leadership: “Look at me” and “do as I do.” Paul later said something similar (1Cor 11:1).

[7:18-22] Reminiscent of the great shout of Jericho (Josh 6:5,16,20), Gideon and his men also shouted. Interestingly, he added “and for Gideon.” Why? Pride? Was he trying to usurp GOD’s glory? I don’t believe so. I think it was wisdom. It confirmed the fear GOD put in their hearts (7:14) – yes, the barely is Gideon! The 300 attacked at the start of the “middle” watch. Jewish tradition speaks of three nighttime watches (Jubilees 49.10,12). Later, in the New Testament, the Roman system had four watches. Judgment will come at a time when we do not expect (Matt 24:36,42-51; 25:13; Mark 13:32,35-37; Luke 12:35-46). From the enemy’s perspective, they heard hundreds of trumpets, shattering of jars, and saw only hundreds of flaming torches because it was dark. If hundreds were available to blow trumpets and hold torches, the soldiers holding weapons must have been thousands. The torch is reminiscent of Isa 62:1: “her righteousness goes forth like brightness, and her salvation like a torch that is burning.” With 300 trumpets, it would’ve sounded like a gigantic army. If the torch was in the left hand and the trumpet in the right, why did Gideon’s men shout “a sword for the Lord”? Because in the confusion, the enemy killed themselves with their own swords. Gideon and his men needed only to stand their ground and trust in the Lord and watch the Lord fight their battle for them (Ex 14:13-14,25; Deut 1:29-31; 3:22; Josh 23:3; 2Chr 20:29; Neh 4:20; Ps 46:1,10-11; Isa 50:10; Jer 15:20-21; Zech 14:13). GOD spoke their victory (7:7), GOD’s Word is living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword (Eph 6:17; Heb 4:12), and His Word accomplishes His will and does not return void (Isa 45:23; 46:10; 55:10-11; Matt 24:35).

[7:23-25] GOD’s strategy: only 300 were needed at that location because all other men were everywhere else, ready to intercept the enemy who fled. Our focus is that we should be willing to call upon the body and the body should be able to unite together (Acts 4:24,31; 5:12; Rom 15:5-7; 1Cor 12:12-27; Phil 2:2-4; 1John 1:7). After all, even the enemy knows how to unite as one against the Lord and His children (Ps 2:2-3; 83:5; Mark 5:9). Oreb was killed at the rock. “Oreb” עֹרֵב [H6159]ʿōrēḇ (o-rabe’) essentially means עֶרֶב [H6153] ʿereḇ (eh’-reb), which means evening, night, or covered by darkness. Not only did the 300 attack at night in the covering of darkness, but Oreb was evil and thus a symbol of darkness (John 3:19-21; 11:9-10; Eph 5:6-13). Oreb was killed at the rock. The Lord is the Rock and all who fall on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust (Luke 20:17-18). “Zeeb” זְאֵב [H2062 / H2061] zeeb (zeh-abe’) means wolf. Not only is a wolf a literal predator (Gen 49:27; Jer 5:6; Zeph 3:3), but wolves also represent false teachers, apostates, or someone who is a danger to GOD’s children (Ezek 22:27; Matt 7:15; 10:16; John 10:12; Acts 20:29). Zeeb was killed at the winepress. Judgment in the winepress resembles the final judgment against all wicked people (Isa 63:1-6; Rev 14:19-20; 19:15). Hence, Oreb and Zeeb came to represent GOD’s judgment against evil (Ps 83:11; Isa 10:26), which is the burden and yoke removed from the shoulders and neck (Isa 9:4; 11:27; Matt 11:28-30). Those who trust in the Lord and endure until the end will experience all burden removed (Isa 25:8-9; Rev 7:16-17; 21:4).

[8:1-3] They accused Gideon just as Job had been accused by his friends and Satan, and Jonathan had been accused by Saul (1Sam 20:30), but Gideon returned accusation with flattery, causing their anger to subside. Gideon’s wise response turned away wrath (Prov 15:1,18; 10:12; Gal 6:1). Abigail had done similar toward David (1Sam 25:10-35).

[8:4-21] This story is similar to the aforementioned story of Nabal, Abigail, and David, except no one interceded here. Gideon and the 300 were “exhausted yet pursuing.” For all that GOD calls us to do, our focus is to endure until the end and run the race so as to win (Matt 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13; 1Cor 4:12; 9:24-27; 10:13; 13:7; 2Cor 1:6; 2Tim 2:10-13; 4:5; Heb 12:1-17; 1Pet 2:19-20). As a tribe of Gad (Josh 13:27), those in Succoth were supposed to love their neighbors as themselves (Lev 19:17-18) but they didn’t. Those in Penuel also chose to do evil. Gideon’s righteous anger was warranted because and he was to hate evil (Ps 97:10; Prov 8:13; Amos 5:15). Although his anger was justified, his sinning in his anger was not justified (Gen 4:6-7; Ps 4:4-5) – he took revenge into his own hands rather than allowing GOD to avenge him (Lev 19:18; Deut 32:35-36). He tortured and killed fellow Israelites for refusing to support his army. Gideon became the first judge to turn the sword against his fellow Israelites. The only killings that were justified were the deaths of Zebah and Zalmunna because they murdered his brothers; therefore, Gideon sought a life for a life as per the Law (Gen 9:6; Ex 21:12,23; Lev 24:17; Num 35:30-31; Deut 19:21; 27:24). Zebah, Zalmunna, and their army were caught off guard because they “felt secure.” Complacency kills. “Zebah” זֶבַח [H2078 / H2077] zeḇaḥ (zeh’-bakh) means a sacrifice or slaughter, thus the flesh of a slain animal. “Zalmunna” צַלְמֻנָּע [H6759] ṣalmunnāʿ (tsal-moon-naw’) means that shade has been denied, referring to the benefit of protection being withheld. Hence, both of their names declared them to be as good as dead. This section highlights Gideon’s increase of faith and confidence; however, it also highlights Gideon’s departure from the Lord’s guidance. The presence of the Lord is noticeably absent. Whereas Gideon previously waited for the Lord to give them victory (7:21), now Gideon seems to embrace leadership and makes confident (if not cocky) commands, seemingly relying upon his own strength.

[8:22-28] Repeating Israel’s mistake of the past, the men claimed that Gideon saved them (not GOD) and requested him to be their king instead of the Lord (1Sam 8:4-9), but Gideon rightly stated that only the Lord is ruler. However, Gideon’s actions didn’t match his words. Gideon, made the same mistake Aaron made by making an idol (Ex 32:2-4). Idols became constant snares (Hos 13:2). Although Gideon appears to reject their invitation to be their king, by ancient Near Eastern standards all his actions thereafter are typical of kings: (1) he claims the lion’s share of the plunder for himself; (2) he claims the purple [royal] garments of the Midianite kings; (3) he establishes a national cult center complete with divine image; (4) he establishes a large harem with “many wives,” at least one “concubine,” and fathers 70 sons; and (5) he names his son “Abimelech” אֲבִימֶלֶךְ [H40] ‘ăḇîmeleḵ (ab-ee-mel’-ek), which means “my father is king.” In order to support all his wives and children, he had to have the resources of a king. We must ensure our actions match our words because hypocrites don’t fare well in judgment (Matt 10:26; 23:13-33; 24:51).

[8:29-35] After Gideon died, the people of Israel again became harlots, echoing Deut 12:30 and Judg 2:3,17. They did not have a personal relationship with the Lord. You cannot be saved by someone else’s faith (Matt 25:1-13). And even a strong beginning does not ensure a secure end (1Sam 9:21; 31:3-9; 1Kng 3:6-14; 11:1-11; Matt 10:4; 27:5). Gideon also allowed himself to indulge in harlotry via sexual sins of polygamy, which GOD condemned (Deut 17:17). A hero on the public battlefield is not always a hero in private daily life (2Sam 11; Matt 23). It is possible for one to win a single battle yet lose the whole war. It’s important to remember that sometimes Satan’s strongest and most strategic attacks come after an initial victory when the victor puts down his shield because he feels secure. Again, complacency kills.

Final Analysis:

Gideon was courageous and replaced his fear with faith. However, he ended up replacing his faith in GOD’s power with confidence in man’s might. Sadly, he also abandoned his leadership role and allowed the Israelites to fall into idolatry. Worse, like Solomon, he replaced his love for GOD with lust for women. Through a concubine, he fathered a bastard son who would later bring great grief and tragedy to both Gideon’s family and the nation of Israel. From winepress, to warrior, to women, Gideon’s strong beginning did not come to a secure end. But despite his downfalls, it is written that Gideon had accomplished good in Israel as a Judge (8:35) and will forever be remembered for his faith in believing the Lord to fight his battle against the Midianites (Heb 11:32). Gideon showcases how the vessel (human being) is only great while in proper relationship with the Lord, empowered by the Spirit. And the fact that Gideon is listed in the Hall of Faith showcases GOD’s grace in that none of us need to be perfect, we need only to be a person after GOD’s heart (1Sam 13:14; 1Kng 11:4; Acts 13:22), continually bearing fruit in keeping with repentance, and to live faithfully obedient while trusting in the Lord. And through our faith-filled obedience (in Christ Jesus), GOD will remember our sins no more (Ps 25:7; Isa 43:25; Heb 8:12; 10:17).

Is Fear A Sign I’m Not Saved?

Someone wrote to me, “Do you think that if we fear we are not saved it is a sign we are not saved, since perfect love casts out fear?”

That’s a fair question. I see how that might seem confusing to some people. Now, in order to answer this question thoroughly, I believe I need to address three things:
[1] the feeling or emotion of fear;
[2] 1John 4:18 (the Scripture you cited);
[3] the concern of being saved.

[1] The feeling or emotion of fear:
The Bible informs us about two different types of fears: one is good and encouraged; the other can be good but it can also be a hinderance we need to overcome. The first type of fear is the fear of the Lord. For the sake of time, I’m not going to expound upon this one (I can discuss that in a separate article if that’s something you want to know about), but suffice it say that this is a reverent awe and respect of GOD. Scripture tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom because it gets us into alignment with GOD’s absolute moral standard (Job 28:28; Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7; 8:13; 14:26-27; Acts 9:31). If you desire to examine the depth beyond the surface regarding absolute morality, as it turns out, I wrote an article on that: Morality (Moral Law).

The second type of fear is one of emotion. It can be good if the fear within us is given by the Holy Spirit in order to redirect us away from danger. An example of this might be when you’re walking down a street at night by yourself and you encounter a person who causes the hair on the back of your neck to stand up and it produces this fear to stir within you and then in your spirit you feel compelled to flee from this person because you believe this person desires to cause you harm. That type of fear can be healthy and good.

However, an example of how fear can be a hinderance that needs to be overcome would be our irrational fears of people’s opinions about us or the unnecessary fear that we might die today. There are many Scriptures which remind us not to fear our enemies because ultimately, we know that we’re in GOD’s hand — and that’s the best place we can be! An example of this can be seen in Exodus 14:13: “But Moses said to the people, ‘Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord which He will accomplish for you today.’ ” And they walked confidently through the parted sea away from Pharaoh and his chariots. And so the fear we need to overcome is the fear that would take away from our confidence and faith in the Lord. Therefore, we all need discernment regarding fear. Fear can be a good thing, but it can also be a bad thing — it’s all dependent upon the specific circumstance. We must be Spirit-led when it comes to this issue of fear.

[2] 1John 4:18:
“¹⁷ By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. ¹⁸ There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.”

When this verse says that perfect love casts out fear, this is in reference to the day of judgment (as verse 17 clarifies). And this is “so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment.” And so this fear is one that involves our punishment on the day of judgment, and thus verse 18 tells us, “the one who fears is not perfected in love.” Why is this? Because we know that we have placed our complete faith in the finished works of Jesus’s death and resurrection. And why did Jesus do that for us? Because as it is written in John 3:16-18, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. He who believes in Him is not judged.” And it is for this reason that Hebrews 4:16 says, “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Therefore, we do not fear our day of judgment because we have placed our complete faith in the Lord and we know GOD is love (1John 4:8,16). And so on the day of judgment when we will account for everything we’ve ever said and done, though we may feel humbled and remorse for all that we know we have done wrong, we should also be extremely joyful and grateful on the day of judgment because we have this confidence that Jesus died for us out from His love for us (Romans 5:6-8).

[3] The concern of being saved:
If you fear that you might not be saved, then please read my other article: “How Do I Know If I’m Saved?“

Superhero: Armor of GOD: Shield of Faith

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If you would rather read this message, the words are provided below…

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This is Part 18 of my Superhero series. In the introduction of this series, I provided the argument that heroes are real and then I distinguished between heroes and superheroes. I also provided a list of what defines a superhero. In Part 1, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute standard of Good and realize that evil is a mere privation of what is good. In Part 2, we learned that superheroes recognize the absolute moral standard and realize that what is wrong can only be known by the standard of what is right. In Part 3, I defined and expounded upon love because all superheroes are full of love and are compelled to act out from love. In Part 4, I explained that superheroes desire to save people from all forms of danger and/or death and this desire comes from love. In Part 5, we learned that superheroes are solution seekers. In Part 6, we saw that solution seekers are willing to sacrifice if necessary. In Part 7, we saw that sacrificial love steps forward and offers service. In Part 8, we saw that superheroes go above and beyond the call of duty. In Part 9, we saw that superheroes never give up! In Part 10, we saw that superheroes don’t need recognition – they are motivated only by love! In Part 11, we saw that relationships matter and teamwork works! In Part 12, we saw that the struggle is real; however, Jesus is the real solution to our real problems. In Part 13, we saw that despite problems, superheroes are more than conquerors! In Part 14, we saw that true superheroes do not have identity crises – they know who they are even if others don’t! In Part 15, we saw that superheroes are always ready to fight evil with the belt of Truth. In Part 16, we saw that superheroes are always ready to resist evil by putting on the breastplate of righteousness. In Part 17, we saw that superheroes are always ready to walk with purpose.

In this message (Part 18), we will see that superheroes are always ready to deflect the enemy’s attacks by holding up the shield of faith.

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Continuing the examination of the whole armor of GOD, we are now instructed to take up the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16).

Marvel’s superhero, Captain America, has protected himself from the enemy’s blows many times thanks to the covering provided by his shield. As superheroes who sail for the Savior, we also find protection under the covering of the Shield. Just as the shield of a Roman soldier rested on a small clip attached to his loinbelt when it wasn’t in use, our shield of faith is attached to the Belt of Truth. The conclusion is simple but extremely important to understand: your faith is attached to GOD’s Word. And we are instructed to take up the shield of faith. In other words, faith is the shield. But what is faith?

What Is Faith?

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
(Hebrews 11:1) -ESV

GOD’s Word provides the definition of faith while the direction of faith is implied by the context of everything else found within the Bible. Simply put, faith is believing that and trusting in. This definition of faith contains two aspects: intellectual assent and trust. Intellectual assent is believing something to be true. Trust is actually relying on the fact that the something is true. A bridge can help illustrate this point. Intellectual assent is recognizing that a bridge is a bridge and agreeing that it is designed to support a person who walks across on it. Believing that a bridge is designed to support the weight of a person who walks across on that bridge is the intellectual assent. But actually walking across the bridge is trusting in the bridge that it will actually support your weight and you will not fall through to your death.

Faith In What Or Whom?

It’s not enough to merely have faith. Who or what we have faith in matters. Muslims place their faith in Muhammad and Allah, Hindus place their faith in a multitude of different gods and/or goddesses, and even atheists possess faith. For example, atheists would need to have faith that everything was created by nothing, out of nothing, and for no purpose or that the universe has always eternally existed, yet it exists without reason. They would also need to have faith that everything in nature with a design is without a Designer. Atheists would need to have faith that materials could somehow collaborate in order to generate life which produces emotions, thoughts, and a will to act. They would also need to have faith that mere matter in the shape of a brain is capable of producing thoughts and that those thoughts are somehow material rather than immaterial. Atheists also place their faith in their own bodies, believing that they can fall asleep at night and still wake up breathing the next day. They also possess faith by trusting that the food another person made for him/her isn’t poisoned, that friends or co-workers aren’t engaged in a conspiracy to harm him/her, that the law of gravity won’t suddenly stop working as expected, or even that the sun won’t explode today. Every time an atheist makes plans for the future, they are doing so in faith that tomorrow exists. Many atheists also possess faith that they were created via purposeless evolution yet somehow evolved with the purpose of becoming better and better as time goes on. Oddly enough, some atheists even have faith that life on other planets exist without having any proof of such life in existence. In fact, many atheists have faith that black holes exist even though they have no personal experience that would allow them to believe in such a thing. So, in whom or what should we place our faith? It matters. Should we place our faith in our works? In religion? Well, for Christians, this faith that is our shield is not mere belief that GOD exists; rather, it is the belief that GOD exists and the trust in GOD that He will ultimately bring about what is best and what is right. Our faith is in Jesus.

Believing that Jesus was a historical figure who died from crucifixion is not enough. Even the demons believe that GOD is real and Jesus died on a cross (James 2:19). As I stated in my other article, “What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?“, belief is only the beginning in a Christian’s walk of faith; in fact, faith will launch the Christian into action. A Christian is also to perpetuate a healthy habit of confessing his/her sins, repent from sinning, walk by faith, live righteously, and live out the great commandment of loving GOD and loving others while fulfilling the great commission. Belief is only the first half – trust is the other half! We must personally and fully rely on the death of Christ as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. We must not merely believe that Jesus is the Bridge, but also walk across the Bridge of salvation which Jesus graciously provides to the other side, trusting in the Bridge to support us and save us. This is saving faith. The faith GOD requires of us for salvation is belief in what the Bible says about who Jesus is and what He accomplished and fully trusting in Jesus for that salvation (Acts 16:31). Why is this definition of faith so important? Why must trust of the unseen promise accompany acknowledgment of facts? Because “without faith, it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). Without faith, we cannot be saved (John 3:16). Without faith, the Christian life cannot be what GOD intends it to be.

Back in ancient Greece, each Spartan hoplite came together to form a phalanx. Their trust was in each other and each individual man held up his shield with all of the other shields coming together to form one larger shield. A man didn’t just believe that other Spartans were around him, but he believed in those other Spartans to see what he didn’t see and protect him as they fought with him. As Christians, we can also come together to form a faithful phalanx; in fact, GOD’s Word instructs us to do so (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). However, we must all come together with our trust ultimately in the Lord because it is only through the Lord that we will be saved (Psalm 118:8-9; John 14:6; Ephesians 2:8-9). Faith is the shield; our faith is in Jesus; therefore, Jesus is the Shield. All throughout the Bible, it is written that GOD is our shield (Genesis 15:1; Deuteronomy 33:29; 2Samuel 22:3,31; Psalm 3:3; 5:12; 7:10; 18:2,30,35; 28:7; 33:20; 84:9,11; 91:4; 115:9-11; 119:114; 144:2; Proverbs 2:7; 30:5). Jesus is GOD; therefore, Jesus is the Shield.

Take It Up!

Again, belief is only the beginning in a Christian’s walk of faith; in fact, faith will launch the Christian into action. Is this shield of faith a given? No. We are instructed to “take up” the shield. If you don’t pick the shield up and hold it up, it won’t do you any good. Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26) because the lack of works reveals an unchanged life or a spiritually dead heart; a truly transformed life of faith is demonstrated by the works we do and is showcased by our fruit (John 15:8). How we live reveals what we believe and whether the faith we profess to have is a living faith.

Big Faith = Big Shield:

An illustration of a gladiator warrior character or sports mascot in a trojan or Spartan style helmet holding a sword and shield

There were typically two kinds of shields used in ancient warfare: one was smaller, carried upon the arm, and which could be moved and used with little effort in order to protect particular parts of the body; the other one was large, planted in front of the soldier and covered the whole person. It is the latter which is referred to in the text, as the word which describes it clearly shows. The word for “shield” is taken from the Greek word thureos, which was used by the Greeks to refer to a door that was wide in width and long in length. Paul paints a picture that the soldier was inaccessible and untouchable because it completely covered the soldier. And that is the kind of shield which Paul instructs us to have. Our shield is not just for small and specific protection for a particular part of the body; rather, our shield is to be a great barrier that covers us completely. So, how do we get this large shield? The greater the faith, the larger the covering of the shield. But what does great faith look like? Believe it or not, it looks like a child. We need faith like that of a child (Matthew 18:1-4; Mark 10:15). The Father wants what is best for you and will provide covering. At the end of it all, Jesus has made us a Home to dwell in for eternity (John 14:2). Seek GOD, rely on Him, and trust in Him. Just as children trust their earthly fathers, we should trust that our “Father who is in heaven [will] give good things to those who ask him” (Matthew 7:7-11). Children don’t typically ever doubt that their parents are going to love them and do what is best and what is right for their sake. Likewise, we don’t ever need to doubt that our Father in Heaven will do what is best and right for our sake (Luke 11:11-13).

Big Shield = Big Responsibility:

In the majority of cases, the Roman soldier’s shield was composed of multiple layers – usually six layers – of thick animal hide that had been tightly woven together. These layers were woven so tight that they became almost as strong as steel. Though strong and durable, the shield needed care. Because the Roman soldier’s shield was made of leather, it was important for the soldier to take good care of it. Being leather, it could eventually become stiff and breakable over a period of time. If dried out, it would form cracks and become unreliable. Consequently, a soldier had to maintain his shield by rubbing oil into the leather to keep it soft, supple, and pliable. Likewise, we need to maintain our faith with fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit. Without daily anointing of the Holy Spirit, your faith will become hard, stiff, brittle, and breakable. A faith-life that is ignored nearly always breaks and leaves a person vulnerable during battle with the enemy. Too many believers make the incredibly tragic mistake of thinking they can stay under constant protective covering and keep moving forward in the walk with GOD on the steam of their past experiences, but no believer can fuel the fire of the faith-furnace on past experiences. Our walk with GOD is an ever-present daily experience. Therefore, make sure you spend time alone with GOD every day in the Word and in prayer. 

Faith Deflects Fiery Darts:

What are the fiery darts? Doubt? Fear? Perhaps a professor launches challenging questions that shake your faith? Maybe you suddenly lose your stable job? Perhaps there is an unexpected death of a loved one? Maybe a natural disaster tears apart your home? Regardless of what these darts are, they are all surprise attacks from Satan, an ambush from the adversary. While under attack, people tend to wonder if GOD is there, aware, or even cares. If these fiery darts are not blocked, they will pierce and penetrate.

Ancient soldiers used the large shield to hide under when archers would launch a barrage of arrows toward them. In the 2006 movie, 300, even the courageous Spartans had been temporarily immobilized while hiding under their shields from arrows that rained down on them from the Persians. But as soon as the arrows stopped, they were able to march forward once again.

Scripture warns us that these arrows launched by Satan from the fiery pits of Hell are themselves fiery. The Greek word used to describe these particular “darts” is a specific and ancient word of warfare. Thucydides, the ancient Greek writer, used the identical Greek expression to depict especially terrible arrows that were equipped to carry fire. All fires start with either a single spark or a flickering flame that fans out. The goal of the arrows of fire is to cease progress of the soldiers and make sure the army doesn’t advance forward. If the soldiers can’t advance forward in the moment, they might just believe that they will never be able to advance forward and then decide to retreat and flee in fear or surrender in submission. If the fiery dart enters you, it would seem that the fire would burn within you and consume you just as the fire of Hell would also consume you. Fire-bearing arrows were used to inflict damage and/or destruction on a fortified place or an encampment. And since your body is the living temple of the Holy Spirit (1Corinthians 6:19), Satan desires to burn the building down. 

Before a Roman soldier went out to war, he typically placed his shield in water and allowed it to become saturated. The reason for this is because the enemies used arrows that carried fire. But even when those flaming arrows came at the soldier, the saturated surface of the shield would help extinguish the flaming arrow, or at the very least, prevent the flame from transferring from that arrow to him. Likewise, we need to keep our shield of faith completely saturated with “the washing of water with the word” (Ephesians 5:26). Our Word-saturated shields possess the power to extinguish the flaming arrows, or at the very least, prevent us from being consumed by the fire. Think about it: the shield is maintained by oil and water. The oil symbolizes the fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit and the water symbolizes GOD’s Word. Are you maintaining your shield? Preventative maintenance is better than corrective surgery. Do not wait until you see the cracks in your shield before you decide to care for it. All the enemy needs to penetrate the fortified structure of your living temple is one opening. 

Another thought regarding these fiery darts is that this might be a reference to arrows with poison tips. This is also a good analogy. The poison of fear spreads just as fast as fire, if not faster. For this reason, ancient Israelite soldiers were commanded to go home and not join in the battle if they were full of fear (Deuteronomy 20:8). However, GOD’s Word repeatedly informs us that we are not to fear. In fact, the phrase “do not fear” is found 38 times in the Bible (ESV), the phrase “do not be afraid” is found 33 times, and the phrase “fear not” is found 34 times. Those alone add to 105 times we are told not to fear. But then if we add how many times we have been commanded not to worry, not to be anxious, or that we should rely upon GOD, the picture becomes clear: we are not to fear. In fact, Jesus provides a good reason why we shouldn’t fear finite and fallible humans:

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
(Matthew 10:28; see also, Luke 12:5) -ESV

From the beginning until the end, GOD has been in control and always will be in control. The first fiery dart Satan ever launched at humanity was aimed at the heart and this is why the heart is the start and we must wear the breastplate of righteousness to protect our hearts. Knowing how much GOD loved Adam and Eve, Satan targeted Adam and Eve. Knowing how much Adam loved Eve, Satan targeted Eve. The first fiery dart was doubt, denial, and deception (Genesis 3:1). The second fiery dart was pride (Genesis 3:5). The ultimate end goal of all fiery darts is to first tear your life apart and then tear you away from GOD. In fact, this is evident in the book of Job; Satan desired to tear Job’s life apart with intentions of ultimately tearing Job away from GOD. And GOD allowed Satan to launch his fiery arrows at Job so that He could prove that He is our Shield by protecting Job from his accuser. GOD’s reversal tactic was also revealed in Jesus. Jesus allowed death to overcome Him (John 10:18) so that He could in turn conquer death (Luke 24:5-7). From the beginning, GOD allowed the temporary separation of humanity from Him so that He can conquer evil and reunite us all with Him under His covering. The complete picture of our story reveals GOD’s power and love as our Shield.

The Shield Is Spiritual:

A common misconception about the shield of faith is that this shield will protect us from all physical follies and mayhem from mismanagement. The shield of faith is, in fact, spiritual. In Daniel 3, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego held up their shields of faith while in the fiery furnace. King Nebuchadnezzar threatened to throw them in the fire if they did not fall down and worship the gods and the golden image he set up. The three men of faith essentially responded by proclaiming that GOD could remove them from physical harm if He wanted to do so, but that even if GOD didn’t save them from the physical fire, they knew they would never encounter the spiritual fire of Hell (Daniel 3:17-18). It is important to realize that these men of faith were thrown into the physical fire. Their faith did not prevent them from experiencing the physical fire in the furnace. In this specific story, GOD miraculously intervened and acted as their physical shield. But that’s not always the case. 

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were mentioned in the book of Daniel and so Daniel should also be examined. Daniel also held up his shield of faith in the den with lions (Daniel 6:22). But why? Because he refused to cave into demands to worship the king and was discovered praying to GOD (Daniel 6:11). If society ever gets to that point again, we must know how to respond in faith so that we will honor the Lord rather than people (Acts 4:19-20; 5:29). Remember: Jesus told us that if we refuse to acknowledge Him before people on Earth, He won’t acknowledge us before the Father in Heaven (Matthew 10:32-33).

What fiery darts have you experienced? If you haven’t experienced any fiery darts, I assure you that you most certainly will. Fiery darts look a lot like persecution and/or tribulation. It would be an enormous mistake to assume that the shield of faith completely covers our earthly bodies or physical possessions. The shield of faith is a spiritual shield and covers our soul in eternity. Both apostle Paul and the Lord Jesus warned us in advance that in this life, we will have trouble and experience pain and suffering; however, Jesus also gave us a promise and a reason to trust in Him:

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
(2Timothy 3:12) -ESV

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33) -NLT

Is your shield of faith paper thin and easy to tear apart or is it like Captain America’s shield and able to withstand the hardest of blows? Is it oiled and saturated and able to extinguish the flaming arrows? How confident is your trust in the Lord? This shield doesn’t just stop the arrows, but it also extinguishes the fire. It’s easy to have faith when everything seems to be going right, but how is your faith when it all starts to fall apart? When everything seems to be at its worst, do you trust GOD to have your best interest? Consider the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. What can we learn from the heroes of faith?

GOD declares us righteous when we have faith and trust in Him (Genesis 15:6). What you do cannot be separated from what you believe (Deuteronomy 27:9-10; Matthew 7:21). Jesus said no one’s faith in Israel was greater than the centurion who believed Jesus could accomplish His will by mere command from a distance (Luke 7: 2-10). We need to move from belief that to trust in. Are you willing to walk on the Bridge, even if that bridge appears to be shaky and unreliable? Even if there are gaps between the planks? In China, there exists a bridge that’s about 500 feet high with gaps between the planks. On this bridge, many people challenge themselves to walk by faith:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.”
(Proverbs 3:5-7) -ESV

Understand this: GOD doesn’t promise us explanations for everything, but He does promise us an escape for whatever may come our way (1Corinthians 10:13). If the escape happens to be death, then life still awaits us:

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
(John 11:25-26) -ESV

It all boils down to trust in GOD. We know that all things are possible with GOD (Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37). In fact, greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world (1John 4:4)!

The one being protected by the shield is unable to fight. Getting behind the shield is a purely defensive position and all trust is placed in the shield. Sometimes we just need to wait until the fiery arrows stop falling. Not all superheroes are witnessed flying in action; not all boxers are seen swinging. Boxers sometimes need to take up their gloves and block the opponent’s attacks. While behind the Shield, we simply need to be still and know that GOD is GOD (Psalm 37:5-7; 46:10).

We may have pain and suffering in this lifetime, but the final outcome is that we are more than conquerors in Christ (Romans 8:37) and we win in the end. Jesus will wipe away every tear and we will live in eternal joy (Isaiah 25:8; Revelation 7:17; 21:4). Our faith is in Jesus and His promise of our eternal joy. The shield of faith is constructed by our belief and is held together by every word of GOD. But do you know GOD’s Word? What’s holding your belief together? What transforms your belief into trust?

And because the shield of faith is so important, it is written that above all, or in all circumstances, we are to take up the shield of faith. The phrase Paul used is taken from the Greek phrase epi pasin. The word epi means over. The word pasin means all or everything. Rather than referring to being more important than the other pieces of armor, the phrase epi pain describes position over the other pieces of armor. Therefore, it means that this shield is out in front as a covering. Faith is meant to be out in front! Faith was never meant to be held next to your side or to be timidly held behind your back. Faith is our covering. Are you covered? For a soldier in GOD’s army (or any army), the shield is not optional – it’s a requirement. Paul wrote to Timothy and emphasized the importance of this shield: “wage the good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith” (1Timothy 1:18-19). In other words, by ignoring or neglecting the maintaining of their faith, some brothers and sisters in the Lord freely chose to travel down the wrong path that eventually led them to being vulnerable to the enemy’s attack. Again, remember that preventative maintenance on a ship is better than an emergency evacuation plan due to the ship sinking out of neglect from proper inspection and correction. 

So, does the Shield of Faith work? In the words of Peggy Carter from the 2011 movie, Captain America: The First Avenger, after firing a gun at Steve Rogers while he was holding the shield in front of him, I will also say, “Yes, I think it works.”