The Shield is Truth Plus Faith (An Excerpt taken from Dr. Bob’s book, “A Kid in God’s Treehouse – A Devotional Commentary of Psalm 91”)
For just a Mentoring Minute, “I want to take you to a valuable Bible truth that begins with Psalm 91:4b (NKJV). It says, “His truth shall be your shield and buckler.” “The Bible describes “truth” as spiritual battle gear. The Apostle Paul included it in the full armor of God in Ephesians 6. Let’s look at the spiritual application of truth as a “shield;” and then, as a “buckler” or belt. In biblical Israel, when going into battle, the importance of a warrior’s shield could not be overestimated. The Bible provides us with references (Old and New Testament), describing the spiritual value of the “shield.” In Psalm 91, “truth” is described as a “shield.” In Ephesians 6:16, Paul refers to the “shield of faith.” Paul placed the shield’s importance above all else in the full armor of God.” [He said this in Ephesians 6:16 (NKJV):] “above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one“… We can see the connection between “truth” and “faith” and the shield they provide us. Let’s paraphrase this combination: “Secure your faith by embracing what God’s Word promises, concerning the “truths” you read in it. Allow these “truths” to “shield” or stand between you and the spiritual forces that are arrayed against you. As you do, you will find yourself able to keep standing until you gain your victory.””
There are too many times we face challenges and difficulties that do not readily appear to be spiritual in nature. Unless we are able to recognize the spiritual forces at work in them, we will fail to see the necessity of turning to truth and faith as the foundations of our responses.