Why do we put out fires as quickly as possible?

It's not a trick question.

Because a fire not put out SPREADS. It will consume whatever is near it. It will destroy whatever is in it's path until it is stopped. 

Paul said we need to use the Shield of Faith to EXTINGUISH or PUT OUT all the flaming arrows of the evil one. The enemy's plan would be to soak the tips of their arrows with tar and then light them. Once lit they would be launched. Shields of the day were made of wood and covered with leather or some type of animal hide. Prior to battle these shields would be soaked in water.  While this made them heavier to carry, it also served as a way to keep the flaming arrow from spreading. It would be extinguished shortly after contact.

We need the SHIELD of FAITH to put out the attacks of the evil one. What are the flaming arrows? Lies about whether or not God can cares for you? Temptations to doubt His promises. Can God be trusted? Another flaming arrow consists of the verbal attacks that come from people. Gossip. Lying. Slander. James says in 3:6 the "tongue is also a fire and itself is set on fire by hell". Attacks of fear... fear of the future... fear of failure... fear of not being good enough. Fear that God won't be there for me. These and a of others.

The Shield of Faith is more than mentally agreeing with some beliefs. Faith is an actively taking God at His Word. It's found in both believing and obeying Him.  

I've never learned to swim. Or better, I swim like a rock floats. I need a life jacket or i'm in deep water... literally. Once while white water rafting the Colorado River i was keenly aware that if i fell out of the raft, the only real shot i had at surviving was the vest wrapped around me. That and my brother-in-law whose crazy idea it was to do the trip. My who sense of security was found in trusting that vest!  

In the same way, as we live life, we must believe and live out the promises of God. They are our "live vest". God's Word says:

• "Greater is He within You, than the one in the world". 1 John 4:4. 
• "Trust in the Lord and He will make your paths straight" Prov. 3:5-6  
• "Since we have been made right by Faith, we have peace with God". Romans 5:1 
  
• ​"The name of the Lord is a safe place, a strong tower, the Righteous run to it and are safe" Prov 18:10
  
• "The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet steady like a deer" Habakkuk 3:19
  

Take up the Shield of Faith and with it protect yourself and those you love!

See you Sunday!

Pastor Mike
PS: Don't forget we need you Sunday afternoon as welcome our friends and neighbors with Trunk or Treat. From 4-6pm  Pray for good weather. Pray that God may give us favor with those who are here!​

---