Embodying the Full Armor Part 4; The Shield of Faith and Heart Chakra

YogaFaith

The Shield of Faith can be associated with the heart chakra as both relate to love, compassion, and acceptance. This chakra is also related to our identity / identity in Christ and who He says that we are. The Shield of Faith is a means of protection against "the fiery darts of the wicked one". Our shield is not a passive defense but an active one, representing our trust and confidence in God. It is through faith that we are able to deflect doubts, fears, temptations, accusations, and remain steadfast in our walk with Christ. This faith emanates from our core being, much like the strength of a warrior depends on the integrity of their shield in battle. The Shield of Faith can protect against offense (the bait of satan), bitterness or unforgiveness, while drawing us toward postures of love and forgiveness. Because these things can cause brokenness or a broken heart, this area can also be associated with the Breastplate of Righteousness, which protects our heart from Satan's vicious attacks. The Heart Chakra is located at the center of the chakra system and represents the bridge between the lower chakras (associated with material existence) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality). It is also related to our [core] identity and self acceptance. Regions that correspond to this chakra are the respiratory system, specifically lungs and heart, as well as the shoulders, ribs, breast and diaphragm. The Heart Chakra is the wellspring of love, compassion, and joy. It governs our relationships and our ability to give and receive love unconditionally. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 I think this may be the most powerful energy center that God created in our bodies because it is related to love, and God is Love. He has created us to love deeply, feel compassion and empathy, and be as gracious and loving to others as He has been toward us. When our heart is healthy, and we realize our true identity in Christ, we have a peace that passes all understanding and a joy that this world cannot give nor take away! When our heart gets broken, jaded, or offended, or soul ties from sexual sin remain; if it holds onto bitterness and unforgiveness, you’ll either delay, or halt, your destiny. Guard your heart above all else for it is the wellspring of life! (Proverbs 4:23) Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 Our thoughts, emotions, and actions are all powered by love, so we want to continually check in with our heart and make sure we are keeping it clear of all junk. If there be any walls built around it, any bitterness, offenses, unforgiveness, we must daily bring these to the foot of the cross, renew our mind and cleanse our heart. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:21 Both the Shield of Faith and the Heart Chakra emphasize the importance of being centered and grounded in one's core values. They speak to a sense of inner peace and assurance that allows one to engage with the external world without being overcome by its challenges. In the midst of spiritual warfare or life's turbulence, both faith and love serve as anchors, providing strength and resilience. Each encourages the cultivation of a strong, protected, and open heart — one that can face adversity without losing its capacity to love, trust, and remain connected to Christ and to others. Copyright 2024; Michelle Thielen for YOGAFAITH all rights reserved.