As we watch the news of war in Ukraine unfolding, I am reminded that we have an enemy. Satan is called “the accuser” (Rev. 12:10) in Scripture because he lives to accuse and find fault with the believer.
He loves nothing more than to point out our weaknesses and the places where we are seemingly failing. He attacks us with missiles of doubt, fear and shame. However, we have weapons of warfare that we can use to defeat him at his own game.
In Ephesians 6:10-17, the apostle Paul gives us specific weapons to use in the battle. He invites us to take the belt of truth, the breastplate of Christ’s righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of Christ’s faithfulness, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. I believe one of the greatest ways we can fight the enemy is to pray prayers combining Scripture and praise. As one old author said, “Satan is allergic to praise.” He cannot stand when we quote Scripture and praise God. The combination sends him flying.
Below, you will find 3 examples of powerful, scriptural prayers you can use when the enemy comes against you. You can use them as they are written or you can adapt them to your specific needs and make them your own.
When Satan Attacks with Guilt or Shame
“Lord Jesus, I praise You! You are worthy to receive power and wealth and honor and glory and blessing because You are the Lamb that was slain. I praise You that You sit on the throne triumphant and victorious and that no weapon formed against me will prosper. I praise You that I am already clean because of the work You accomplished on Calvary. How I praise and thank you that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Lord, I stand in the victory that You have already won and I renounce Satan’s attempts to throw me into guilt or shame. Thank you that You are my victory! I stand secure in You and in Your righteous robe. I praise You, Holy One, that when You look at me, I look as good to You as Jesus” (Rev. 5:12-13; Isa. 54:17; John 15:3; Rom. 8:1 ).
When Satan Attacks My Mind with Fear or Anxiety
“I love You, LORD God, my strength! You are my rock, my fortress and my deliverer! How I praise You that I can hide in your presence under the shelter of Your wings until the battle has passed. When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. I praise You that Your Holy Spirit will strengthen me to be strong and courageous. I don’t need to be discouraged or afraid because You are with me. Thank you that You go before, behind, above and beneath me. I can’t wander anywhere from Your Spirit and I can’t be hidden from Your presence, even when the enemy is attacking me. I praise You that great peace is possible for me because You yourself are the Prince of Peace. I claim Your peace today over my mind and thoughts” (Ps. 18:1; Ps. 91:1; Ps. 56:3; Josh. 1:9; Ps. 139:7; Isa. 9:6).
When Satan Attacks Me with Feeling Overwhelmed
“I praise You, LORD God, that You ride forth in victory on behalf of truth, humility and righteousness. Let your right hand display awesome deeds! Thank you that You are always defending me before the accuser. I praise You that though I feel overwhelmed, You are never overwhelmed. You will empower me to overcome the evil one, because You live in me and You have anointed me and appointed me to do your work. Thank you that, like those who have gone before me, I will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony. Help me to not shrink back from praising You for all you’ve done in my life. Thank you that my testimony has the power to silence the evil one because of Your great redemptive power” (Ps. 45:4; I John 2:14, 20; Rev. 12:11).
Friend, don’t stop with these prayers. Write some of your own. Look up Scriptures and use them, combined with praise, to silence the voice of the enemy in your life. Jesus is victorious and His desire is that you will be victorious as well.
If you are wrestling with anxiety or fear in these dark days, may I suggest Psalms for the Anxious Heart? This tiny book has already helped thousands, and I’m confident it will help you as well!
In addition to being an author and speaker, I am a certified coach with The John Maxwell Team. I help those looking to move beyond their personal obstacles to live life intentionally with purpose and passion. I offer mastermind classes and seminars on leadership, communication and personal growth. In addition, I offer personal coaching for those looking to grow emotionally, professionally or spiritually. {eoa}
This article originally appeared at beckyharling.com.
Becky Harling, a bestselling author, is a popular speaker at conferences, retreats and other events. She is author of 11 books, including The Extraordinary Power of Praise. Becky is a certified coach with the John Maxwell Team and offers parent coaching. Becky and her husband, Steve, have traveled and ministered in over 70 countries around the world. She is the parent of four grown married kids and Mimi to 14 grandchildren. Connect with Becky at beckyharling.com, harlingleadership.com, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
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