Chapter 10: The Shield and the Buckler — Your Defense in the Battle
In Chapter 10, you will learn how to stand strong in faith through life’s trials. Discover how God’s Word becomes your shield and buckler—your spiritual armor in the fight against fear, doubt, and the enemy’s attacks.
It’s a blessing to be here today, and I’m excited for what we’re about to uncover in God’s Word. Let’s open in prayer. Father, forgive us of our sins. Use my mouth for Your glory. Let every word spoken edify the believers and strengthen all who hear. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Let’s continue with the question: Why does the enemy want you to focus so much on circumstances, trials, and tests?
Because he wants you to fear.
The enemy knows that fear cancels faith. If he can get you into fear, you’ve stepped out of faith—and without faith, it’s impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).
Let’s look at Psalm 91:5 (KJV):
“Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day.”
Previously, we discussed the “shield and buckler.” Let’s go deeper into that today. In biblical times, both were used as defensive tools in warfare. Spiritually, they now represent the protective power of God’s Word.
A shield was a large, broad defensive weapon used to block incoming arrows, spears, or other projectiles. It represents God’s overarching protection. The buckler, on the other hand, was a smaller, handheld shield used in close combat. It symbolizes the intimate and active use of God’s Word in personal battles.
Metaphorically, this is how we are to engage spiritually—using the Word of God as both our shield in long-range spiritual warfare and our buckler for close-quarter attacks from the enemy.
Let’s connect this with Ephesians 6:16 (KJV):
“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.”
Faith acts as our spiritual shield. It is our barrier against the devil’s schemes. The Word of God, when believed and applied, extinguishes every flaming arrow the enemy launches.
Now, look at Proverbs 2:7 (KJV):
“He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.”
God Himself is your buckler. He protects and defends those who live according to His Word.
Back to Psalm 91:4 (KJV):
“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”
David paints a beautiful picture here—just as a bird protects its young with its wings, God surrounds us with His truth. His Word is our shield and buckler.
Let’s revisit Psalm 91:5:
“Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day.”
The “terror by night” refers to unseen dangers—crime, spiritual attacks, or fear-inducing events that often occur under the cover of darkness. In ancient times, people feared nightfall due to wild animals or robbers, especially without the modern luxury of streetlights. Today, while we have lighting, spiritual darkness still lurks—and that’s where God’s voice leads us into safety.
Likewise, the “arrow that flies by day” refers to visible and immediate threats—accusations, betrayals, illnesses, or setbacks. Arrows can be literal or metaphorical, representing spiritual darts aimed at your peace of mind, emotional well-being, or physical health.
Have you taken any spiritual “hits” lately? You might be in a spiritual battle zone.
These arrows—spiritual attacks—are targeted. The enemy doesn’t fire blindly. He knows your weak spots and aims precisely where your mind has not yet been renewed by the Word of God (Romans 12:2).
Maybe it’s your temper, maybe offense, rebellion, fear, or emotional instability. The enemy observes these areas and attacks where your spiritual armor is thin.
Let me repeat this because it’s important: The enemy’s arrows are deliberate. He’ll use people—your boss, coworkers, spouse, even close friends—to fire them. If your mind isn’t renewed by God’s Word in those vulnerable areas, the arrow hits its mark.
Understand this truth: Satan seldom attacks you where you are strong. He aims where you are still struggling. That’s why we must run to God daily and clothe ourselves in His Word.
According to Ephesians 6:12 (KJV):
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world…”
This is spiritual warfare. And when we do battle using our God-given spiritual weapons, His Word promises that the enemy’s arrows will not reach us.
God has given us a covenant—a promise of protection. Isaiah 54:17 (KJV) assures us:
“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper…”
So when the enemy comes with trials, tests, or temptations, remember your covenant. Don’t be afraid of the arrows that fly by day, nor the terrors by night.
God is your shield. He is your buckler. Trust in His Word, and He will defend you.
Conclusion:
When we take refuge in God’s Word and trust in His covenant, no arrow of the enemy can defeat us. Let faith be your shield and truth your buckler.
Key Takeaways:
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The enemy targets areas in your life where your mind is not yet renewed by God’s Word.
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The shield represents God’s overall protection; the buckler is your active, personal use of Scripture.
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Faith is your defense against all spiritual attacks—believe and stand firm.
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The enemy uses people and situations to fire arrows of offense, fear, or discouragement.
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God’s covenant promises you protection and victory through His Word.
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You must actively engage the Word of God daily to guard against the enemy’s schemes.
From The Daily Word with Pastor KBN: Circumstances, Trials & Tests (Part 10), Apr 7, 2025
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily-word-with-pastor-kbn/id1800872165?i=1000702459806&r=575
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