Our Shield and Warrior

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

Scripture tells us that God does not idly stand aside and watch His children fight alone. He's a warrior—our Warrior—who's 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 safety. He knows how to protect us, and fight for us.

The writer of this Psalm also says that God is the One who lifts our heads in the midst of difficulty. It can be easy to become discouraged or tired in the middle of hard times. But even in 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 with hope.

If you’re in a season where you feel like you've lost hope, or you’re simply discouraged and tired, spend some time praying. Ask God to be your Shield in this difficult time. Pray for Him to restore your joy and hope, and to lift your head, as you continue to follow Him.