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"The soul that is united with God is feared by the devil as though it were God Himself." -St. John of the Cross

Supernatural Armor

Humility is the strongest armor, forged of all virtue and feared by demons and satan

Armor has long been seen as more than just physical protection—it is a symbol of virtue, strength, and spiritual resilience. In medieval times, particularly within the ideals of chivalry and knighthood, each piece of armor was thought to represent a moral or spiritual principle. A true knight was not just strong in battle, but fortified in virtue, as their character was seen as essential to their ability to protect and serve honorably. Just as physical armor shields the body from harm, virtues meld together into humility, creating supernatural armor, protecting the soul from temptation, corruption, and moral weakness. This freedom from pride, Humility, is the ability to see oneself honestly and accurately — with all strengths, weaknesses, and limits — without exaggeration or self-deprecation. 

St. John of the Cross:

“The soul that is united with God is feared by the devil as though it were God Himself.”

St. John of the Cross is emphasizing a mystical truth: when a soul is deeply united with God through grace and purification, it participates in God’s own holiness and authority. In spiritual combat, the devil perceives not just the human soul, but the divine presence within it.

This aligns with Scripture:

“It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”
— Galatians 2:20

When Christ lives in the soul, the devil recoils—not from human strength, but from divine indwelling.

Spiritual Warfare

Exorcists emphasize:

  • Authority in Christ: The more a soul is united with God, the more authority it has over evil spirits.

  • State of Grace: The soul in mortal sin loses spiritual authority, while one in grace carries the presence and power of God.

  • Fear of Holiness: Demons fear holy priests, sacramentals, and especially lay souls in deep union with Christ because they reflect His power and truth.

Fr. Chad Ripperger, a renowned exorcist explicitly says that:

“Demons are terrified of sanctity. They fear the Blessed Virgin not for her power in herself, but because of the grace and perfection she possesses and her union with God.”

This is exactly what St. John of the Cross means: the closer we are to God, the more threatening we are to the kingdom of darkness.

Insights from the late Chief Exorcist of Rome

Fr. Gabriel Amorth, chief exorcist of Rome, writes:

“The devil is afraid of us when we pray and make sacrifices. He is also afraid of us when we are close to God and remain in the state of grace.”
— An Exorcist Tells His Story

He explains that even the mere presence of a saintly person can cause torment to demons during exorcism sessions, because the soul is radiating God’s presence.

Practical Implications for You

  • Holiness is your armor: Grow in grace through frequent confession, Eucharist, prayer, and detachment from sin.

  • Don’t fear the devil—make him fear you: Unite your soul to God daily through acts of charity, humility, and purity.

  • Use your authority wisely: Especially if you are the head of a household or have spiritual responsibilities, your holiness spiritually protects those under your care

 

Many saints and theologians (especially St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and St. Teresa of Ávila) teach that humility is not just one virtue among many — it’s the foundation, the glue, and even the crown of all the virtues. Let’s unpack how and why humility is truly the fabric woven from every virtue:

The Foundation of All Virtues

  • Without humility, no other virtue can take root or grow.

  • Pride is the root of all sin, according to many traditions — so the antidote must be humility.

  • Even if someone is “kind” or “generous” outwardly, if pride or self-glory is the motivation, the act lacks true virtue.

“Humility is the soil in which all the other virtues grow.” — St. Teresa of Calcutta

examples of how humility is present in and shaped by virtues:

  • Charity (Love): Humility allows you to put others before yourself. Love is not puffed up (1 Cor. 13).

  • Peace: A humble heart accepts God’s will and others’ shortcomings, leading to inner peace.

  • Fortitude: True strength comes from acknowledging your weakness and relying on God.

  • Wisdom: Humility makes us teachable — recognizing we don’t know it all is the beginning of true wisdom.

  • Justice: A humble person sees everyone as equal before God, not exalting themselves above others.

  • Kindness & Mercy: Flow from the ability to see others without judgment or superiority.

  • Generosity: To give without seeking praise requires humility.

  • Temperance (Self-control): Humility restrains the ego, which feeds excess.

Humility as the Result of Practicing Virtue

When someone practices the virtues sincerely:

  • They become more aware of their dependence on God.

  • They see their strengths as gifts, not personal glory.

  • They stop comparing themselves to others.

This awareness leads naturally to humility — not in a self-degrading way, but in an honest, joyful acknowledgment of truth.

“Humility is truth.” — St. Teresa of Ávla
(Not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less — as C.S. Lewis paraphrases it.)

Humility is like light passing through stained glass — every virtue (like love, patience, kindness) is a color, but the light (God’s grace) can only shine clearly when the glass is clean and transparent. That transparency — that openness to grace — is humility.

A knight truly clad in Humility is not only invulnerable to external dangers but fortified from within, resisting deceit, fear, and shame. The full set of Supernatural armor includes: Faith, Hope, Love (Charity), Wisdom, Counsel, Knowledge, Piety, Understanding, Fortitude, Fear of the Lord, Joy, Peace, Patience (Longsuffering), Goodness, Generosity, Gentleness, Kindness, Chastity, Faithfulness, Modesty, Self-Control, Temperance, Justice, Prudence, and Ultimately Humility, when a person can see the truth about themselves in relation to God, others, and reality. Below is an outline of the symbolism of armor and virtue: 

 

1. Helmet – Strong Willpower, Clarity of Mind & Direction

  • The helmet guards the head, symbolizing the protection of the mind, thoughts, and clarity of judgment.
  • Just as a knight needs a strong helmet to withstand blows, a noble warrior must guard their mind against deception, doubt, and impure thoughts.
  • Purity of mind—free from corruption, lust, or dishonorable intent—was seen as essential to remaining focused on one’s higher calling.
  • A knight with wisdom and mental purity is able to see through falsehoods, make just decisions, and remain unshaken in battle.
  • Characteristics associated with the Helmet are Counsel, Knowledge, and Wisdom. 

2. Breastplate – Power of a Pure Heart & Moral Integrity

  • The breastplate protects the heart, the center of emotions, desires, and moral convictions.
  • This represents righteousness, chastity, and inner purity, ensuring that the knight remains morally uncorrupted and unwavering in virtue.
  • Chastity was highly regarded in knighthood, as it was believed to strengthen a warrior’s focus and spiritual power.
  • A heart that is pure is shielded against temptation, corruption, and dishonor, just as a well-crafted breastplate defends against swords and arrows.
  • Characteristics associated with the Breastplate include: Joy, Peace, and Hope. 

3. Gauntlets – Strength, Humility & Righteous Action

  • The hands are the instruments of action, so gauntlets symbolize strength, tempered by humility and righteousness.
  • Knights were expected to use their hands not for destruction or selfish ambition, but for justice, protection, and service to others.
  • A knight who wields power with wisdom is honorable, while one who misuses it becomes tyrannical.
  • Characteristics associated with gauntlets are Charity (Love) Kindness and Gentleness.

4. Belt – Strength from the core, Solidifying all else as impenetrable

  • The belt is an essential piece of armor, holding everything together.
  • Symbolically, it represents chastity, self-control, and unwavering commitment to one’s duty.
  • Many medieval knights took vows of chastity, knowing that self-discipline granted them strength and clarity of purpose.
  • Just as an unfastened belt weakens the armor, a lack of discipline weakens the soul.
  • Characteristics associated with the belt include Chastity, Self-Control, and Modesty.

5. Greaves – Perseverance & Walking the Righteous Path

  • The greaves protect the legs, allowing the knight to stand firm and walk without stumbling.
  • This represents perseverance, endurance, and the determination to follow the path of honor and righteousness, despite obstacles.
  • A knight who falters in virtue is as vulnerable as one who stumbles on the battlefield.
  • Qualities associated with the greaves include: Fortitude, Temperance, and  Patience (Longsuffering).

 

6. Shield – Defense and Protection from Evil

  • The shield is the knight’s first line of defense, representing faith, trust, and divine protection.
  • Just as a shield blocks physical attacks, faith defends against fear, doubt, and spiritual harm.
  • In Christian tradition, shields were often marked with crosses or holy symbols, reinforcing the belief that true protection comes not just from steel, but from unwavering trust in righteousness.
  • Characteristics associated with the shield are Faith, Goodness, and Fear of the Lord.

7. Sword – Truth, Justice & Righteous Judgment

  • The sword is the only offensive weapon, representing truth, justice, and the fight against evil.
  • A knight was expected to wield the sword not for personal gain, but to uphold justice and defend the innocent.
  • Many swords bore inscriptions of divine or moral significance, emphasizing the righteous purpose behind their use.
  • In a spiritual sense, truth is a weapon that cuts through deceit and exposes dishonor.
  • Characteristics associated with the sword are Justice, Prudence, and Understanding.

 

8. Cloak or Cape – Honor, Divine Favor & Protection of God

  • Often overlooked, a knight’s cloak symbolized grace, honor, and divine favor.
  • A noble knight’s reputation and virtue wrapped around them like a cloak, distinguishing them from mercenaries and dishonorable warriors.
  • In some traditions, the cloak represented a knight’s allegiance to their higher calling, whether to God, their king, or a sworn duty.
  • Characteristics associated with the Cape are Faithfulness, Piety, and Generosity.

The Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit as Armor

The gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit are key aspects of Christian theology, rooted in Scripture. They Are a part of what we refer to as the Supernatural Armor, as they represent qualities and virtues imparted by the Holy Spirit to believers to guide their spiritual growth, strengthen their faith, and help them live according to God’s will. The gifts of the Holy Spirit equip believers for their spiritual journey of serving God, while the fruits of the Holy Spirit are the visible signs of a life transformed by God’s presence. Both are essential for true inner strength.

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit

The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are derived from Isaiah 11:2-3 in the Bible and are understood to be spiritual endowments granted to believers. These gifts empower individuals to live virtuous lives and fulfill God’s purpose. They are: Wisdom, Counsel, Knowledge, Piety, Understanding, Fortitude, & Fear of the Lord. 

The Fruits of the Holy Spirit

The fruits of the Holy Spirit are described in Galatians 5:22-23 as qualities or virtues that manifest in the life of a believer who is living in harmony with the Holy Spirit. They are; Joy, Peace, Patience, Goodness, Generosity, Gentleness, Kindness, Charity, Faithfulness, and Self-control (continency).

All of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit are Vital Pieces of Armor

A comprehensive list of all of the Fruits of the holy spirit includes:

  1. Modesty: Humility in behavior, dress, and speech, reflecting a reverence for oneself and others.  Modesty stems from self-control and respect for the dignity of oneself and others. It is often connected to how a believer honors God through their choices.

  2. Chastity: Purity in thought, word, and deed, particularly regarding sexuality. Chastity reflects self-mastery and dedication to living in accordance with God’s will, respecting the sacredness of relationships and sexuality.

  3. Longsuffering: The ability to endure trials and suffering with perseverance and trust in God.  Longsuffering emphasizes not just patience in daily trials but enduring hardship, persecution, etc, with faith and hope.

Clad yourself in Unearthly Protection: The Cardinal Virtues

The cardinal virtues are fundamental to Western philosophy, dating back to Plato and later refined by Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas:

  1. Prudence:
    • The ability to make wise decisions and act with foresight and discretion.
  2. Justice:
    • Treating others fairly and giving each person their due.
  3. Temperance:
    • Exercising self-control and moderation in desires and actions.
  4. Fortitude:
    • Courage and resilience in facing difficulties and challenges.
The cardinal virtues are part of the Supernatural armor which is essential for manhood.
DALL·E 2025-03-09 21.48.31 - An ultra-realistic digital painting of a tall, young, and strong medieval knight, with a dramatic focus on his large steel shield and a deeply courage

Infused with the Power of The Theological Virtues: Faith, Hope, & Love

The Theological virtues, namely Faith, Hope, and Love, when based on Truth, act as a spiritual armor — a protective force that strengthens the soul and fortifies the spirit in life’s battles:

  • Faith forms the foundation of inner strength, offering stability and defense against fear, doubt, and chaos. It anchors the heart in truth and higher purpose.

  • Hope is the resilience within the armor — the enduring belief that even in darkness, light is possible. It keeps one moving forward through hardship, trusting in better things to come.

  • Love (Charity) binds the armor together with compassion and purpose. It motivates action not from pride or fear, but from a deep, selfless care for others, transforming the struggle into something meaningful.

Together, these virtues do more than protect — they empower. They turn  isolation into connection, struggle into purpose, and vulnerability into courage.

Feared by demons

How Humility is Effective Against Demons and Evil in General

Humility is the greatest spiritual armor, forged from every virtue, gift, and fruit of the Holy Spirit, making it the most complete and impenetrable defense against demons and evil. It is the antithesis of Satan’s greatest sin—pride—and is therefore the most feared and hated virtue in the kingdom of darkness. A humble soul is completely surrendered to God, immune to demonic manipulation, and filled with divine power.

Humility destroys the devil's strategy of pride and rebellion

Satan’s fall was caused by pride and self-exaltation (Isaiah 14:12-15), and he tempts humanity to follow the same path of arrogance and self-will. Humility makes these attacks powerless.

  • Humility acknowledges that all power and goodness come from God – The devil tempts people to think, “I am self-sufficient,” but humility declares, “Without God, I am nothing.”
  • It prevents the soul from exalting itself – Many fall into sin through pride, self-importance, and entitlement, but humility keeps the soul grounded in truth.
  • Humility makes the soul untouchable to demonic flattery – Demons feed the ego to manipulate people, but humility rejects vanity and remains devoted to God.

Example: The Blessed Virgin Mary, the humblest of all, was given the greatest role in salvation history. Her humility crushed the head of Satan (Genesis 3:15).

Humility makes the soul invisible to demonic attacks

Demons target people through pride, vanity, and attachment to their own will. A humble soul does not fight for control but surrenders entirely to God, making demonic attacks ineffective.

  • Humility removes the ego, which is the demon’s main target – Where pride makes the soul fragile and easily offended, humility makes it resilient and unshaken.
  • It rejects self-importance, making the soul unattractive to demons – The devil seeks souls obsessed with status and recognition, but humility finds joy in being small before God.
  • A humble soul does not engage in battles of self-will – Many spiritual attacks succeed because people insist on their way, but humility trusts God’s way completely.

Example: St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s humility made her spiritually untouchable. She called herself “the little flower,” yet she became one of the most powerful saints in history.

Humility strengthens prayer and spiritual warfare

Demons fear and despise prayers from a humble heart because they carry the full power of God’s grace.

  • A humble person prays with total trust and surrender – Many prayers go unanswered because they are self-centered, but humility prays only for God’s will.
  • Humility allows prayers of deliverance to be effective – Exorcists report that demons cannot stand humble prayers because they are spoken with pure faith, not arrogance.
  • A humble soul is given divine authority over demons – Scripture says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

Example: St. John the Baptist, in his humility, said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). His humility made him powerful against evil.

Humility prevents temptation from taking root

Most sins begin with pride, selfishness, or entitlement. Humility prevents these sins from forming by keeping the soul dependent on God.

  • Humility keeps the heart detached from sin – Where pride seeks pleasure and control, humility desires only what pleases God.
  • It removes the desire for recognition and power – The devil tempts people to seek status and control over others, but humility delights in serving.
  • A humble soul repents quickly and resists temptation – Instead of justifying sin, humility confesses faults and seeks grace.

Example: The tax collector in Luke 18:13 prayed, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” His humility led to his justification, while the prideful Pharisee was rejected.

Humility blocks the devil's influence over families, churches, and society

Pride destroys relationships, creates conflicts, and weakens communities. Humility brings healing, unity, and divine protection.

  • Humility keeps marriages and families strong – Where pride causes fights and resentment, humility brings patience, forgiveness, and love.
  • It strengthens church leaders and communities – Many churches fall into division due to pride and ambition, but humility builds a foundation of trust and service.
  • Humility restores nations and civilizations – When leaders seek power over service, societies collapse. Humility brings justice, peace, and godly leadership.

Example: St. Francis of Assisi rejected wealth and status, humbling himself to serve the poor. His humility inspired a worldwide movement of holiness.

Why Humility is the Ultimate armor against evil

  1. Demons thrive on pride—humility makes them powerless.
  2. It makes the soul invisible to demonic manipulation.
  3. It strengthens prayer and spiritual warfare, making it extremely effective.
  4. It blocks temptation at the root, preventing sin.
  5. It heals families, churches, and societies by removing division and selfishness.

How to strengthen the virtue of Humility

  • Pray daily for humility and surrender to God’s will.
  • Accept correction and criticism without defensiveness.
  • Serve others without seeking recognition.
  • Confess sins frequently and rely on God’s mercy.
  • Meditate on Christ’s humility, especially His Passion, Crucifixion, and the Eucharist.


Humility is the foundation of all holiness. A soul clothed in humility is untouchable by demons, filled with divine strength, and completely surrendered to God’s will. It is the armor that reflects Christ Himself—the one whom demons fear the most.

Put on the Armor of God

10 Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. 11 Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens.  13 Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. 14 So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, 15 and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all [the] flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 
Constant Prayer 
18 With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit. To that end, be watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the holy ones.  -Ephesians 6:10-18

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