Prayer is a powerful weapon, but it is not without opposition. As we draw closer to God, the enemy seeks to disrupt, distract, and dissuade us from maintaining a strong prayer life. However, the Bible provides clear instructions on how to resist these attacks, ensuring that our prayers remain potent and effective.

Today’s Scripture:

Ephesians 6:10-13 – (NKJV)

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 

11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 

13 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.

In this passage, the Apostle Paul reminds us of the spiritual battle we face and the necessity of equipping ourselves with God’s armor to resist the devil. This resistance is not passive; it is an active stance that requires strength, vigilance, and reliance on God’s power.

Understanding the Hindrance: Spiritual Attack

One of the greatest hindrances to prayer is the spiritual opposition we face from the devil. His tactics are designed to weaken our resolve, fill us with doubt, and ultimately disconnect us from God. These attacks can manifest as distractions, discouragement, fear, or even temptation to sin—all of which can diminish the effectiveness of our prayers.

Ephesians 6:10-13 teaches us that our struggle is not merely against physical challenges but against spiritual forces of darkness. Recognizing this helps us to take the necessary steps to defend ourselves, ensuring that our prayers remain powerful and that we can stand firm in our faith.

The Remedy: Putting on the Whole Armor of God

To overcome this hindrance, we must put on the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6. This armor equips us to stand firm against the devil’s schemes and ensures that we are protected as we engage in prayer. Each piece of armor represents a vital aspect of our spiritual defense:

• The Belt of Truth: Ground yourself in God’s truth to discern and reject the lies of the enemy.
• The Breastplate of Righteousness: Live in righteousness to protect your heart from attacks of guilt and shame.
• The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Stand firm in the peace that comes from the Gospel, which steadies you in times of trouble.
• The Shield of Faith: Use your faith to deflect the fiery darts of doubt and fear thrown by the enemy.
• The Helmet of Salvation: Protect your mind by remembering the assurance of your salvation.
• The Sword of the Spirit: Wield the Word of God, your offensive weapon against the enemy’s lies.

By consciously putting on this armor every day, we prepare ourselves to resist the devil’s attacks, ensuring that our prayers remain unhindered and that we can stand firm in our spiritual battles.

Practical Application: Resisting the Devil in Your Prayer Life

1. Daily Preparation: Begin each day by consciously putting on the armor of God. Reflect on each piece and how it can help you resist the devil’s schemes.
2. Stay Vigilant: Be aware of the ways in which the enemy tries to distract or discourage you from prayer. Recognize these tactics and counter them with prayer and Scripture.
3. Stand Firm in Faith: When faced with spiritual attacks, stand firm in your faith. Remind yourself of God’s promises and trust in His power to protect and deliver you.
4. Use the Word of God: Just as Jesus used Scripture to resist the devil’s temptations, be ready to speak the Word of God against any spiritual attack. The Bible is your most powerful weapon in spiritual warfare.
5. Pray in the Spirit: Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your prayers, especially when you are under spiritual attack. The Spirit intercedes on your behalf, helping you to pray effectively even in difficult times.

Conclusion: The Victory of Resistance

Resisting the devil is not just about avoiding sin; it’s about standing firm in the spiritual battle that surrounds us. By putting on the full armor of God and relying on His strength, we can resist the enemy’s attacks and ensure that our prayers remain powerful and effective. Remember, resistance is active and requires daily vigilance, but with God’s help, we are more than conquerors.

Prayer:

Lord, I thank You for equipping me with the armor I need to stand firm against the devil’s schemes. Help me to put on this armor daily, to resist every attack, and to pray with confidence, knowing that You are my strength and my shield. In Jesus’ name, Amen.