- Buckler
Psalm 18:30
He is a buckler to all those that trust in him.
A buckler is a large shield that covers nearly the whole body so that the warrior may be protected from arrows and spears during battle. The believer is always and ever in this life involved in spiritual warfare since the devil, sin, and death are relentlessly present to fight against his soul and diminish his life. He cannot fight and protect himself very well without a shield. The Lord Himself is that shield; He is our defense and our protector.
The Lord, our Great Warrior, puts us behind the buckler, behind Himself, so that the enemies cannot harm us. He will not stop the slings and arrows, spears and javelins, from being thrown our way. Some new attack comes at us every day. Every day we put on the armor of God; we live our lives safely enjoying His blessings under his protection and behind His shield and buckler.
This promise of protection is conditional: it is for those who trust in him. Placing one’s trust in Him is a matter of believing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, acknowledging my sin and guilt, recognizing my weakness and need, confessing and repenting, believing Jesus died and rose for me, receiving the forgiveness of sins, and trusting in Him to give me eternal life today. Led by the Spirit to make that simple transaction I am trusting in him. Trusting in Him, seeking His refuge, I claim the promise of God being for me a buckler. He daily overcomes sin, death, and devil. I am secure; I am content.
The word for “buckler” can also be translated “Suzerain.” Suzerain is a covenant protector, the stronger of two kings entering into covenant agreement to protect the weaker if the vassal king pays tribute and loyalty. The picture of a strong ally who will protect us weaklings from the marauding enemy is also a valid interpretation. Either way, I am safe in Him.