First, let's look at some key Bible verses to remind us of the reality we're in spiritual warfare. Whether we recognize it or not, there is a battle for our souls, for salvation or damnation.
For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me. ~ Psalm 18:39
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ~ Ephesians 6:12
"This God--his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God?-- the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless. He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights." ~ Psalm 18:30-33
Scripture tells us that we are in a battle "against the spiritual forces of evil" that seek to undermine and demoralize the good people of the world. Ephesians 6:11 says we must "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil." Therefore, to be battle-ready means to put on the full armor of God for spiritual protection and strength against the cosmic powers of darkness. ELIM further explains the purpose of being equipped for spiritual battle:
"Living as a man of God in an often apathetic or negatively aggressive environment can be a challenge. When family or colleagues wind you up or put you down because of faith in Jesus how do you react? Against a greater backdrop and darker spiritual challenges being played out in your life, how do you overcome well and gain honor for the Lord?
God’s provision to believers on the battlefield of life is described as armor in Ephesians 6:1-18. This Kingdom Kevlar reveals the essential God qualities that enable you to overcome any challenge. I have been to museums and have seen ancient armor locked behind reinforced glass display cases. What was once fit for purpose is sadly now corroding and consigned to tales of yesterday, no longer serving its intended purpose."
God, our refuge and strength, help us in times of trouble. When the earth dissolves and the mountains tumble into the sea and its waters roar and foam, remind us of your might, and your good and gracious will. All creation is groaning as it suffers the corruption of sin, but you have promised to make all things work together for the good of those who love you.
Hear our prayer, “Deliver us from evil,” and save your people from all disaster. Give patience and endurance to those who serve, help, and rescue. Calm the anxious. Comfort those who suffer loss. Turn thoughts from earthly to heavenly things, that we look to you, our only Savior, and help. Amen.
We know that the enemy wouldn’t be fighting so hard against us if we weren’t making a difference for your kingdom. He wouldn’t be trying so hard to stop us if he didn’t think you had so much good still in store. Remind us, today Lord, that the battle belongs to you, and whatever we’re up against can be taken down in one fell swoop by your mighty hand. Please help us to trust you more, to stop wasting time just spinning our wheels or fighting in our strength. Forgive us for the times we’ve neglected to set our eyes and hearts on you, for the days we’ve forgotten to come to you first. Fill us with the power of your Holy Spirit. Fill us with your wisdom and discernment to make us aware of the enemy’s traps, so we can stand strong against his schemes. Thank you for your constant reminders that your presence will go with us, in whatever we face, and you will give us rest. Amen - Debbie McDaniel
Give to us, O God, the girdle, the helmet, the breastplate, the shield, the sandals, the sword— and above all things, prayer.
Grant to us the power and opportunity of well-doing, that before the day of our departure comes, our efforts may have produced good fruit.
Allow us to behold your presence in righteousness and be fulfilled with your glory, for Christ’s sake. Amen.
Source: Lancelot Andrewes
O Lord, our redemption. Be our protection. Direct our minds by your gracious presence. Watch over our paths and guide us with your love through the hidden snares of life.
Fix our hearts on you as we go forward, and following in faith, arrive at your goal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Source: Mozarabic Liturgy
Lord Jesus, I thank you that you have already won the victory. Because of your death on the Cross, Satan’s fate has been sealed. Thank you for equipping and enabling me to resist the devil’s attacks. Thank you for your Word that can expose my own sinful desires and refute the lies of the Devil. Help me to stand firm, rooted in the faith, shielded by your armor, and dependent on your grace. Help me to resist the devil today. In the name of the one who crushed the head of the serpent, Amen. - Aaron Berry
Heavenly Father, Your warrior prepares for battle. Today I claim victory over Satan by putting on the whole armor of God!
I put on the Girdle of Truth! May I stand firm in the truth of Your Word so I will not be a victim of Satan’s lies.
I put on the Breastplate of Righteousness! May it guard my heart against evil so I will remain pure and holy, protected under the blood of Jesus Christ.
I put on the Shoes of Peace! May I stand firm in the Good News of the Gospel so Your peace will shine through me and be a light to all I encounter.
I take the Shield of Faith! May I be ready for Satan’s fiery darts of doubt, denial, and deceit so I will not be vulnerable to spiritual defeat.
I put on the Helmet of Salvation! May I keep my mind focused on You so Satan will not have a stronghold on my thoughts.
I take the Sword of the Spirit! May the two-edged sword of Your Word be ready in my hands so I can expose the tempting words of Satan.
By faith, your warrior has put on the whole armor of God! I am prepared to live this day in spiritual victory! Amen. - David Jeremiah
Sources: acollectionofprayers.com, crosswalk.com
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This article is part of our prayer resources meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
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