Spiritual Shields – Anne Adams
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped,” (Psalm 28:7a NKJV).
The Cheyenne Indians battle shield displayed in the museum case was probably considered by most an art object, but to its warrior-creator it meant protection. The descriptive card in the case explained how the shield started as a large circle of buffalo hide which was processed, fitted into a frame, and then tested by firing arrows at it. If it passed the test, the warrior painted a personally meaningful design on the front — and since it was thought to possess potent powers to the viewer, it was kept covered. Then as a battle loomed, the warrior removed the cover and rode into action, relying on the physical and spiritual protection the shield provided.
When the psalmist in our passage referred to God as a ‘shield’, it was a picture of the Lord’s protection in battle. For the soldiers of Israel, this was indeed comforting; but for us, it’s both comforting and encouraging as well, since our battles are more spiritual than military. Of course, we don’t use actual shields, but following this imagery, God is indeed a protection to us as we move forward on our spiritual journeys serving him.
God’s protection can come in several forms – such as his ongoing encouragement amidst the doubts and worries we encounter. Also, God protects us by providing what we need to accomplish what’s needed as we carry out his will.
To the Cheyenne warrior, the shield that he created provided protection so he could survive an enemy encounter, but for us the shield of God’s protection enables us to serve him — for our benefit and His glory.
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