FIERY ARROWS OUT OF HELL

Paul advises, “Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Ephesians 6:16). Paul elaborates on how we are to do battle with the enemy, who sends tormenting thoughts of fear.

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:11–12).

Beloved, the conflict we are in is not a human struggle that can be fought in an earthly sphere. This battle takes place in a supernatural realm. The truth is, if you are in Christ, then you face the wrath of Satan. Do not mistake this demonic wrath for the judgment of God. The wrath you’re up against is that of a devil gone mad because he knows his time to come against God’s people is short.

Satan’s attacks are aimed especially at those who have devoted themselves to walk faithfully in the Lord. Again and again, the Psalmist boasts, “I take refuge in the Lord.” Here is a picture of a righteous saint who fully trusts in God. Yet, because of this very testimony of trust, he is targeted by Satan. His unswerving faith is the reason for the fiery arrows sent at him from hell. “The wicked [Satan and his minions] bend their bow . . . that they may shoot secretly at the upright in heart” (Psalm 11:2).

So, what are the fiery arrows out of hell that are directed at you and me? They are fearful, disturbing thoughts about our future and about God’s care for us. The devil is a liar and an accuser, and his every assault is aimed directly at our faith.