The Helmet of Salvation

BY Abby Flynn

Helmets were made from metal and leather and protected not only a soldier’s head, but also their neck and shoulders from attack. The top of the helmet showcased a crest made from dyed horse hair to signify the rank of each soldier. Confidence in our salvation given through Christ allows believers to combat doubt with the assurance of our position in God.

Have you ever left the house wearing the completely wrong outfit for the day ahead? Maybe you wore your favorite sandals on the day of an epic rain downpour. Maybe you wore a cute summer dress without realizing a cold front was coming in. Wardrobe snafus will happen. But over the years, I’ve learned how important it is to check the weather first.That’s because when I know what’s ahead, I can be dressed for what’s coming. 

The same thing is true when it comes to preparing and protecting our minds.

LORD, my Lord, my strong Savior, you shield my head on the day of battle. —Psalm 140:7

Now I don’t know about you, but one of the biggest battles I regularly face is fighting what goes into my head. I go back and forth between the promises of God and the lies of the enemy. I struggle with fear and negative thoughts, and I need reminders of what I know to be true about God’s nature and His faithfulness. Some of the greatest battles we’ll fight as believers aren’t necessarily on display for all to see. But it is what we allow into our heads that affects every other aspect of our life. In our mind begins the seed of every action we take. 

It’s also where we know and are assured of exactly who God is. The helmet of salvation can help us keep our heads on straight. We need this helmet because our mind is where we hold on to what we know is true, and that truth is Jesus Christ. As believers, we are in a spiritual battle. We’re called to be self controlled, dressed with faith, love, and the helmet of salvation at all times (1Thessalonians 5:8).

Satan will attack our minds and thoughts. But God has given us armor to shield our heads. Scripture tells us that the Lord has the ultimate strength and the final Word. If we’ve armed ourselves with the truth of Scripture, we already know who wins this battle! You are fighting, living, and breathing from a place of assured victory.

When we draw close to God, when we dress in the helmet of salvation, He will equip us for whatever we’ll face. No matter what else you decide to wear today, don’t forget your helmet.