Armed for the King’s Highway

“So,” said Christian, “when we hear about robberies happening on the King's Highway, there are two important things we should do:

“First, we must go out fully armed, and most importantly, carry a shield. It was the lack of a shield that caused the one who fought so fiercely against Leviathan to fail, for without it, Leviathan fears us not at all. That’s what Paul said: ‘Above all, take the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the fiery darts of the wicked.’ (Eph 6v16)

“Second, it’s also wise to request a convoy from the King, even asking Him to accompany us Himself. This is what made David rejoice in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and why Moses preferred to die where he stood rather than take a single step without God. (Ex 33v15) Oh, my brother, if He is with us, why should we fear tens of thousands who rise up against us? (Psa 3v5-8; Psa 27v1-3) But without Him, even the strongest will fall among the slain. (Isa 10v4)

“As for me,” Christian concluded, “I’ve faced such battles before, and though, by the grace of the One who is best, I’m alive, I can’t boast of my strength. I would be glad to avoid any more of these encounters, though I fear we’re not entirely out of danger yet. But, since the lion and the bear haven’t devoured me, I trust God will deliver us from the next Philistine as well.”

The two pilgrims then fell silent, their minds reflecting on the sad story of Little-Faith. After a while, Christian began to hum a quiet melody that drifted mournfully through the trees:

“Poor Little-Faith, have you been among thieves?

Were you robbed? Take heart, for whoever believes

Will soon see their faith grow and win victory

Over thousands! Or else, they will struggle with three.”