FLAMING ARROWS

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Ephesians 6:10 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb 11:1). Thus, there is a dimension of faith that steps beyond the realm of fact and senses. In Saint Paul’s prescription of the believer’s dress code, a raising of the shield of faith is recommended to quench flaming arrows.

In night time warfare, unlit arrows seem a better choice because of their difficulty visualising them. Hence, it is of interest that the evil one opts for ‘flaming arrows’. Here is the thing, the enemy is a master of the sense realm. Unless in a controlled setting, fire is often a cause for worry, a sign of danger. Therefore, besides the danger a flaming arrow shot at a target presents, the flames themselves also instill real fear and can initiate disorder.

Those flaming arrows represent real challenges that will appear to be racing downhill towards us as we journey. Yet, we need to raise up a shield of faith. Faith comes by hearing, hearing the word of God; Therefore, we will require a fortification built with, and standing firm on what the Word of God says to extinguish those flaming arrows.

#sly