Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the darts of the evil one being kindled.
Happy Sabbath!
Above all doesn't mean that this is more important. It means over all. Over all the armor is the shield of faith. The shield can be turned in every direction to cover every part of the body when needed. Faith has a similar importance for the Christian.
The shield was usually made of light wood or a rim of brass. It was covered with several thicknesses of strong hide which was preserved by anointing. It was secured on the left arm by straps. The outer surface was rounded and polished smooth so arrows and darts would bounce off. The darts that were used in war were fiery darts. Some Bible translations will actually say “fiery darts” in Ephesians 6:16. These darts were slendar pieces of cane which were filled with combustible material, and set on fire. Or the darts might have some combustible material wound around them, then set on fire and shot slowly against the enemy. The idea was to make the dart stick in the body and increase the danger by burning. Often the soldiers would come prepared by soaking their shields in water, causing the fire to be doused, or quenched.
The Christian armed with faith is surrounded by protection. Faith is what protects from the blows that can cause discouragement. When a Christian is being hit at all side from the difficulties of life, it is their faith that will help them hang on, even when they can't see into the next hour or minute. At times the fiery darts can be the lure or excitement of some sinful act. Or it might be something that causes thoughts of unbelief. Other darts could be feelings of guilt or worthlessness. When those darts come at us, we just need to hold up the shield of faith to put those darts out. Our faith in God is the only way to quiet those doubts, feelings of guilt, or worthlessness. Without a faith in God we have nothing to hold on to. Nothing to give us hope. Nothing to urge us on minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day.
The devil wants to discourage the Christian and destroy all hope. The prepared Christian keeps their shield wet and ready by daily reading about God and spending time in prayer. Our source of strength and our ability to withstand the blows in life only come from God. Trust Him. Talk to Him several times a day. Our relationship with God is what strengthens our shield of faith.