Everytime I have a patient come in following a bicycle accident the first question I ask them is, “Were you wearing a helmet?” The answer to that question determines, to a large extent, how concerned I am about a traumatic brain injury. Whatever their answer, I’m still going to do a full neurological work-up, but if a helmet was used I am less concerned about a serious concussion then I would be otherwise.
The brain, or the mind, is the center of our being, controlling everything we do. It makes us who we are and determines the course we take in life, the decisions we make. Because of this it is also Satan’s special target because he knows if he can influence our thoughts, he can change the whole direction of our lives and not in a good way. That is why Paul reminds us to “Put on salvation as your helmet…” (Ephesians 6:17 NLT). In 1 Thessalonians 5:8 he describes this helmet as “the confidence in our salvation.”
It is this “confidence in our salvation” which will protect our minds when the devil attacks, when he reminds us of our unworthiness, our sin, stoking the fires of guilt, telling us there is no hope for us. However, if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, then your mind will be protected from Satan’s attacks, because you have confidence in your salvation.
This cannot be a one time event, however. Satan does not give up that easy. Just like you should put on your bike helmet every time before you ride, you must daily accept Jesus as your Savior, wearing as your helmet the confidence of your salvation, so you will be prepared and protected when Satan attacks – and he will attack.
There’s an old saying that goes, “the mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Protect yours today with the helmet of salvation, fortifying it by studying God’s Word and by prayer. If you do this, you can move forward with confidence, knowing “God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.” (1 Peter 1:5).
God bless and have a safe and happy day!