Our Shield and Warrior

One of the primary images of God in the Old Testament is that of God as a Warrior. All throughout Scripture, God is frequently going to battle for His people, or standing alongside them in the midst of difficulty, protecting His people from harm.

Scripture tells us that God does not idly stand aside and watch His children fight alone. He is a Warrior who not only fights alongside them, but is actively protecting His people.

This is why the writer of Psalm 3 calls God a Shield that surrounds him. God is not distant—He is present and active in our lives. Even though we may experience pain and suffering, we can go to God for help and for safety. He knows how to protect and fight for us.

The writer of this Psalm also says that God is the One who lifts his head in the midst of difficulty. It can be easy to become discouraged or tired in the midst of hard times. But in the midst of those moments, God supports us.

When we come to God as our Shield, He not only protects us, but He also gives us hope and peace. He restores the parts of us that are tired and burned out. God gives us a reason to continue to fight and have hope.

If you’re in a season where you’ve lost hope, or you’re discouraged and tired, spend some time praying to God right now. Ask Him to be your Shield in this difficult time. Pray for Him to restore your joy and your hope so that way you can lift your head up and continue to follow Him.