The Sword of the Spirit by Mrs. Mary H. Williams

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 13, 1913

The Sword of the Spirit

By Mrs. Mary H. Williams

MRS. MARY H. WILLIAMS

“I THINK we may enter on this side,” said Thief to his companion, Robber, as they approached the house that was built on the Rock. “The foundations were laid so long ago and its towers are so ancient that it can not possibly be equal to modern construction; we surely shall find some weak spot.”

Within the House of the Sure Foundation was ancient armor, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. All were covered with dust, for Student and Modern Thought had long since ceased to dwell on this side of the house. Though they inherited it from their father, they preferred to live in the side that opened into the pleasure gardens, where a fountain played in the sun, and the birds sang, and there was less to remind them of the wickedness, misery, and strife in the world.

Now, seeing they were about to be attacked, Student proposed to buckle on the sword of the Spirit. “A brave defense you would make with your rusty old sword against modern weapons,” scoffed Modern Thought. “I should as soon make a laughing-stock of myself with the old shield and helmet.” “But,” returned Student, “these are the weapons designed by the Builder for the defense of the House of the Sure Foundation. If only I had more skill in their use!”

Now Thief and Robber had failed to find a single weak spot in the building, but overhearing the remark of Modern Thought and Student’s disgraceful confession, they knocked, boldly demanding admission. “I think we would better let them in with us,” Modern Thought said reflectively. “They appear very respectable; besides, it is not in harmony with the spirit of the times to contend for the faith. One should be always broad-minded and liberal.” Student scarcely noticed this last observation, as he was busy dusting off the scabbard to look at the sword. Coming into the sunlight, he drew it forth, and behold! it was two-edged, of the finest temper, and so bright and glistening that Thief and Robber were seized with dismay. When they saw that its gleaming point was a discerner of the very thoughts and intents of their wicked hearts, they fled in terror.

Modern Thought could not speak for amazement, but Student said thoughtfully, “The sword of the Spirit seems wonderfully suited to the defense of the House of the Sure Foundation. I think I shall begin at once to perfect myself in its use.”