Continuing with the armor of God series, we are on to the shield of faith. Ephesians 6:16 "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked."
What is faith? Prophets in the Book of Mormon taught: "And now, as I said concerning faith - faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if you have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." (Alma 32:21). "And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith." (Ether 12:6). Thus we see that faith is a hope, or trust, in unseen things that are true.
This truth is not the relativistic truth, which differs from individual to individual. Instead, this truth is God's truth, "And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come." (Doctrine and Covenants 93:24). This truth is ultimate, universal truth.
Sinnah shield image link |
Siege Mantlet image link |
Roman Parma image link |
Spartan Phalanx from 300 |
Parable of the Ten Virgins from the Gospel Artbook |
Clipeus of Jupiter image link |
Testudo Formation image link |
Droideka or Droid Destroyer from Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones |
Ancient Personal Shield Emitter from Stargate Atlantis Season 1 Episode 2: Hide and Seek |
However, we can't forget the previous lessons: it is God who gives us this power and strength to protect ourselves, we need to use our faith to reach out and help others as well as ourselves, we have the ability to not only defend but push back against the foe, that we may push through the adversary's lines and reach our goal of returning to our Father in Heaven.
No wonder the CTR (Choose the Right) rings became so popular among Latter-day Saints. The idea that using our faith to choose righteousness simplifies all theses ideas. For, if we choose to do what is right, then we we are pressing forward towards God, moving through and past the temptations that try to distract us and lead us away, and help others along our journey home.
Also, the shape of the CTR shield reminds me of the shields on the newer US pennies. Inscribed on this shield is the United States motto "E Pluribus Unum" which is Latin for "Out of Many, One". It serves as a reminder that thought the North American States were many, they have become one nation. Likewise, though there are many believers, as we come together in truth and faith, we become one church, one body of Christ (Romans 12:5).
Lastly, what does it mean to "quench all the fiery darts of the wicked"? To quench means to put out a fire, usually using water. Like quenching a thirst, it satisfies and cools. Usually, I have thought of this "quenching" like the shield spell in Dungeons and Dragons.
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However, it is unlikely that this is what was originally visualized with this scripture. For in Christ's time, fiery darts would be more like arrows lit on fire with oil. Their flames would be quenched by lack of air, such as being embedded in a wooden shield. It does not say that the arrows won't come, nor that we won't feel the impact, but it does say that the fire will be quenched, removing the sting, pain, and suffering that would otherwise befall us if we were not protected.
Arrow Training in How to Train Your Dragon |
May we take up our shields of faith, trusting in God, and quench these darts, that we may be strong enough to return home to our God and our Savior Jesus Christ. In His name, amen.
Love,
Jacobugoth
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