21 Days of Prayer ChallengeParaugs

Day 20: How do I Pray for Protection?

From Pastor Roger Theimer

I am amazed at how big Halloween celebrations are becoming in America. I am curious about people's different beliefs behind ghosts, devils, and spiritual things. Statistics tell us that less than half of Americans believe that there is such a thing as a real devil. The costume depictions either make him out to be super scary or comically amusing. I think it is safe to say that most dismiss the importance of taking the spiritually dark forces as a real threat.

Not so with Jesus. He understood the threat and power of Satan and His forces of evil.

In the Lord's Prayer, we pray, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." There is perhaps a better translation. Matthew 6:13 can read, "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." Catch the difference? Not generic "evil," but "the Evil One." "Evil" has a personal name: "Evil One." Elsewhere it is Satan, or the Enemy, or the Devil. He is joined by an entire evil kingdom of demons who would try to entice us away from the life we have in Christ.

This threat is more significant than you or me to answer independently. We must be alert and call on God's help. It is vital enough to be included in our regular rhythm of prayer.

How do I Pray for Protection?

First, be alert of the enemy's schemes.

• Satan's goal is to pull you away from God.
• Much of the battle happens in your thought life and in the desires of your heart.
• Satan suggests you would best find your ultimate fulfillment not from God but from your old nature.

Second, pray according to the victory Jesus has won.

• Ephesians 6 tells us to stand firm. We stand on the victory of Christ.
• We pray and put on His full armor.
• Put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the Gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.

We are again praying for God's kingdom to come into our world. This time it is for protection so that we might remain faithful. It will be a battle, but as we call on the name of Jesus, we are reminded that He has already won the war through the cross! That will be revealed on the last day. Let's pray!

Day 20 Challenge: Reread Ephesians 6:10-18 and spend some time going through these verses. As it mentions arming yourself with spiritual armor, go through the motions like you are physically putting this armor on.

Prayer Prompt: For my trust in Jesus to grow