You know me and pictures! This spoke to me tonight!

Isn’t it intriguing how the Spartan King Leonidas explained the phalanx formation to a would-be soldier. The strength was in the impenetrable wall of shields it created, allowing Greeks to fight against superior numbers and prevail. Teamwork, not individual heroism, is what wins the day.

Each soldier’s shield protects the man to his left, from thigh to neck.

It is important to note the phalanx was not about protecting oneself

from harm, but defending one’s comrade for the greater good.

Done effectively, the line would hold against droves of combatants.

Through this, each soldier’s strength was multiplied exponentially. This brings to mind Psalms 27:17.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” – NIV

It is also reminiscent of Ephesians 6:10-18.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Strength and honor,

Kevin