How to Deflect Fiery Darts

The Imperative for A Life Transformed

Ephesians 6:16, equips us for inevitable spiritual warfare with an impenetrable defense: the shield of faith. To unlock its full potential, we embark on a journey through the original Greek text, unveiling the power it holds for your Christian walk.

“in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” –‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭16

The original Greek text, “πάνω δὲ ἐπὶ πᾶσιν (“panō de epi pasin”)” emphasizes the paramount importance of this verse, placing it “above all” the other spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6. But what exactly is this faith, and how does it function as a shield?

The Greek word for “faith” here is “pistis” (πίστις), which signifies a firm belief, a complete trust, and a confident reliance. It is not mere intellectual assent to facts; it is a full-bodied conviction in the promises and character of God. This faith in God is the shield that extinguishes the “fiery darts” (βέλη πεπυρωμένα — “bele πεπυρωμένα”) of the enemy. These “darts” are not literal arrows, but temptations, doubts, and accusations that aim to pierce our hearts and minds, severing our connection with God.