The words “spiritual warfare” might spark a variety of images in your mind. From medieval battles to the cartoonish images of a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other, it’s no wonder that many Christians fail to take spiritual warfare seriously.
The apostle Peter tells us to be on guard against powers of darkness:
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” I Peter 5:8-9
The best way to resist the devil and fight temptation is through prayer, but figuring out how or what to pray in regards to spiritual warfare might not seem clear. Read on to discover three daily spiritual warfare prayers that will keep you ready for whatever battle comes your way.
Becoming Aware of Spiritual Warfare
The first prayer is anchored in asking God to help us become more aware of the invisible battle for our souls. We can become so focused on the physical — the day-to-day reality of what’s right in front of us — that we neglect what’s happening on a spiritual level.
The Bible tells us that our battle isn’t against flesh and blood (the physical), but against spiritual principalities and rulers. As Peter said in his first epistle, the enemy is seeking to devour us. We need God to give us the spiritual eyes to see the invisible battle raging around us.
Prayer One:
God, I confess that I am too concerned with the physical world and neglect the spiritual. Open the eyes of my heart that I may become more aware of the spiritual battle taking place around me. Remind me that there is a real enemy seeking to destroy me––not to invoke unhealthy fear in my heart, but rather alertness that leads to obedience.
Use the Holy Spirit to awaken me that I may become more attentive, watchful, and sober minded. Grant me wisdom to better discern the way the enemy is attacking me so that I may become more intentional in choosing righteousness.
Preparing for the Battle
Christians aren’t defenseless in the fight. God gives us the weapons we need for spiritual battle, but they may not be what you think.
It’s easy to again focus on our physical surroundings when it comes to preparation. Saving up enough money, having the right job, parenting the perfect kids. But these things aren’t what Paul had in mind when he encouraged the church of Ephesus.
“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.” Ephesians 6:13-18
Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, scripture, and prayer are the weapons at our disposal. We must have them ready for battle, which is the premise of the second spiritual warfare prayer.
Prayer Two:
God, thank you for not leaving me defenseless, for you have given me everything I need for life and godliness. You are a generous and caring Father who desires to protect me and equip me with exactly what I need.
Give me urgency to put on the spiritual armor that you have provided, and help me to not rely on my own armor. Let me pursue the weapons of righteousness and truth that I may stand firm in your Word and not my inadequate strength.
Standing Firm in the Faith
When it comes to spiritual warfare, it’s important to note that the end goal isn’t finding a demon behind every bush. Instead, it’s a call to be faithful and stand firm against the inevitable attacks.
Standing firm in the face of temptation doesn’t come from our own will power. Christ is our ultimate source of power and where we find our strength and rest. Even when we lose a battle, Jesus is with us and His love knows no end.
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:37-39
Nothing — not even spiritual warfare — can separate us from God. We can stand firm in His promise!
Prayer Three:
God, thank you for being a mighty warrior and a strong protector. You call me to stand firm, not in my own strength and might, but in Yours. Your power has no end and your authority demands even the demons to obey Your will. Help me, O God, to rely on your matchless power to stand firm.
When I fall into sin, doubt, or weariness grant me the faith to rise again trusting in your faithful promises. Grant me victory rooted in Jesus, that I may be faithful and loyal to You.