I recently did an Awana counsel time related to this topic. The theme for the night was “Bean Bag Barrage,” and most of the time the kids’ message goes along with the theme. I had the picture of the storms of life being a barrage at times, so I had a garbage can lid as my shield. I had given about 50 bean bags to the kids and adults, scattered throughout the audience and had them poised to assault me with them. I explained what barrage meant and said that life can be like a bean bag barrage, which was my cue for them to try to hit me with them.
Not one hit me. Most missed, but some hit my can lid shield. The last one made a “zing” sound as it ricocheted. I was not afraid and I stood undaunted with my lid in hand. I then talked about the shield of faith in the armor of God, and told how to use it. When faced with the fiery darts and arrows of Satan, our enemy, we can call out with faith verses that reflect the saving and protecting nature of God. Verses suffice like “I will never leave you or forsake you,” when scared. Or, “God is my refuge and strength in trouble, a very present help.” “The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run into it and are saved.” I can call the verses out loud even, pray them or memorize them to have in my heart.
I had a rough day at work today. I helped a person who needed help, but I could get repercussions from it maybe looking like I took sides where legal action is involved. I am braced for a battle. But I stand on the verse in Luke 11:42 where Jesus scolded the Pharisees for tithing to the tee, “and neglect justice and the love of God.” If I do end up with a ruffle, I will take it with courage because I do not want to neglect justice (helping the powerless) and love.
Another person tried to bully me into not enforcing a policy and I calmly stood my ground, telling her that it is not an unjust or cruel policy and others seem to have no problem following it for the years that it’s been in place. When she threatened I responded firmly and calmly that she can choose to go elsewhere. It could have Facebook and other public ripples, but I stand on Psalm 31:20, “In the cover of Your presence You hide them from the plots of men; You shield them in Your shelter from the strife of tongues.” Oh God, hide me from her plots and shield me from the strife of drama and division.
Finally, I am reminded of Ephesians 6:12 that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers of this present darkness,” 18 “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 tells us that our weapons are divinely powerful for destroying strongholds and arguments. I will attempt to do so with the shield of faith in hand.
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