“The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16

Power of Prayer in Battle

We live in tumultuous times. Jesus promised us that we would have trouble. But He has overcome the world and did not leave us to battle evil alone and unprepared. He prays to the Father for our protection (John 17:15). He gives us the Holy Spirit who “intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will” (Romans 8:27). He equips us for battle by giving us the armor of God to put on each day. This battle is “not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

It is not enough to know about this armor. We have a daily responsibility to “put on” this armor (Ephesians 6:14-17), purposely and thoughtfully. After we have dressed ourselves with the armor of God, we are to stand our ground firmly, being watchful and alert. We are to “be on our guard; stand firm in the faith; be men and women of courage; be strong. Do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14). “Be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position” ( 2 Peter 3:17).  In Mark chapter 13 it says to “keep watch, be on guard, be alert.” And after we have put on the armor of God, the apostle Paul urges us to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer envelopes our armor.

Jesus goes before us in battle and is our Captain. We follow Him with courage and confidence knowing He will never leave us or forsake us. Pray with the vision of being on the front lines in battle. As a warrior, keep moving on. We already know who wins the battle! Jesus has the victory! Claim this truth. Maranatha!

“Lord, we thank You for Your protection, Your prayers, Your armor, and Your love for us as we begin each day ready for battle. Thank You for giving us courage and strength. We claim Your victory! In Your victorious Name, Amen.”