This summer, we will learn how to be warriors for God. Paul tells us in Ephesians that we are caught in the middle of a spiritual war. God doesn’t tell us this to scare us, but to prepare us for life’s everyday battles. As parents we are responsible for leading children in this war by showing them how to use the tools God has given us to fight a spiritual battle. These tools, or pieces of armor are listed in Ephesians 6:11-18. This summer, children will learn how to “put on the full armor of God” by participating in  worship, playing games, making “armor,” praying and memorizing the Bible passage.

As a parent in this battle, prepare yourself.  Ask the Lord to give you a better understanding of spiritual armor as well as the patience and wisdom to teach His children.  Also, in order to be ready for “teachable moments,” commit the Ephesians passage to memory.  Let the children see that you hold God’s Word in your heart.

As you study the passage, you’ll notice in verse 18 that Paul challenges us to pray.  Be sure to pray for your children everyday! They look to you as a leader in the Faith, so with the faith of a child spend time with God reacquainting yourself with this familiar passage of Scripture. Above all, enjoy this time you have to serve God and  invest in the next generation of spiritual warriors!

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What Was a Roman Soldier’s Shield Like?

A shield was a soldier’s best protection. It was about 2 feet across and 4 feet long. He carried the shield in one hand and could move it to protect any part of his body. So it offered protection for almost every part of the soldier’s body.

It was curved so that spears and arrows would hit it at an angle and bounce off. That same curve also gave the soldier room to move about behind it as his movements changed in battle. Most shields were made from wood and were covered with leather. They were bound around the outside with iron or bronze. They were very strong. A soldier was safer when he was not afraid to hide behind his shield. More…