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Survival and victory on a physical battlefield often depend upon constant, accurate, and timely communication - with leaders, with peers, and with subordinates. Likewise, in the midst of spiritual warfare nothing is more vital than our walking conversations with God, constant abiding prayer, both for ourselves and when interceding for others, while waiting and listening for His still, small voice in answer.

Scripture References
  • ...they cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him. (1 Chronicles 5:20 NKJV)
  • Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. (Luke 6:11-13 NKJV)
  • "In this manner, therefore, pray ... deliver us from the evil one." (Matthew 6:9-13 NKJV)
  • For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:11-13 NKJV)
  • "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" (Matthew 7:7-11 NKJV)
  • "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." (Matthew 26:41 NKJV)
  • Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, saying… (Luke 18:1-14 NKJV)
  • But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. (1 Peter 4:7 NKJV)
  • Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJV)
  • Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV)

Intercessory Prayer

  • ...praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-- and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:18-20 NKJV)
  • Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-8 NKJV)
  • "...love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:43-46 NKJV)
  • "The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves." (Luke 10:2-3 NKJV)
  • ...pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 NKJV)
  • Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, Prosperity within your palaces.” (Psalm 122:6-7 NKJV)
  • Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved. (Romans 10:1 NKJV)
  • Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:13-17 NKJV)
  • When I shut up heaven and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place. (2 Chronicles 7:13-15 NKJV)
  • Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. (James 4:1-3 NKJV)
  • Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him. If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that. All unrighteousness is sin, and there is sin not leading to death. (1 John 5:14-17 NKJV)

Examples of prayers for the Church

  • "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren." (Luke 22:31-32 NKJV)
  • "… I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours... Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. …I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one" (John 17:1-24 NKJV)
  • These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. (Acts 1:14 NKJV)
  • Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. (Acts 2:41-43 NKJV)
  • And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. (Acts 14:21-23 NKJV)
  • But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed. (Acts 16:25-26 NKJV)
  • First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established... (Romans 1:8-11 NKJV)
  • Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do what is honorable… And this also we pray, that you may be made complete… (2 Corinthians 13:7-9 NKJV)
  • Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power... (Ephesians 1:15-19 NKJV)
  • For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:8-11 NKJV)
  • We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you… For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. (Colossians 1:3-12 NKJV)
  • Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power, that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 NKJV)
  • Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. (3 John 1:2 NKJV)
Commentary

Prayer is an essential aspect of the Christian faith, serving as a powerful weapon in the spiritual warfare that believers face. Throughout the Bible, numerous verses emphasize the significance of prayer, showcasing its effectiveness in seeking God's intervention, finding strength, and overcoming the forces of darkness. In the context of spiritual warfare, prayer plays a vital role in equipping Christians to face the challenges, temptations, and battles that arise in their journey of faith.

1 Chronicles 5:20 highlights the power of prayer in the midst of battle. The verse recounts how the people of God cried out to Him in their time of need, and He heard their prayers because they trusted in Him. This verse demonstrates that in the face of spiritual battles, relying on God and seeking Him through prayer brings divine intervention and victory.

Luke 6:11-13 provides an example of Jesus Himself engaging in fervent prayer. He went out to the mountain and continued all night in prayer to God. This passage emphasizes the importance of persistent and dedicated prayer, highlighting Jesus' reliance on His heavenly Father for guidance, strength, and direction. As believers engage in spiritual warfare, following Jesus' example of fervent prayer becomes paramount.

Matthew 6:9-13, also known as the Lord's Prayer, illustrates a model of prayer that addresses various aspects of spiritual warfare. It includes the request to be delivered from the evil one, acknowledging the presence and influence of spiritual forces working against believers. This prayer reminds Christians to seek God's protection, strength, and guidance in the face of spiritual opposition.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 assures believers of God's faithfulness and His willingness to listen to their prayers. In the context of spiritual warfare, this passage encourages believers to call upon God, seeking Him with their whole hearts. It emphasizes the promise that when they earnestly seek Him, they will find Him. Prayer becomes a means to experience God's presence, guidance, and provision, even in the midst of spiritual battles.

Matthew 7:7-11 highlights the assurance of answered prayer. Jesus encourages His followers to ask, seek, and knock, promising that those who do so will receive, find, and have doors opened to them. This passage emphasizes the loving nature of God, who gives good things to His children. In the context of spiritual warfare, believers are encouraged to approach God with their needs, confident that He will provide for them.

Matthew 26:41 emphasizes the necessity of watchfulness and prayer to avoid falling into temptation. It recognizes the internal struggle between the spirit, which is willing, and the flesh, which is weak. By engaging in prayer, believers find strength to resist the temptations and attacks of the enemy.

Luke 18:1-14 teaches the importance of persistent prayer and not losing heart. Jesus shares a parable highlighting the need to consistently and fervently pray without giving up. This passage encourages believers to persevere in their prayers, even in the face of prolonged spiritual battles or delays in receiving answers.

1 Peter 4:7 urges believers to be serious and watchful in their prayers, recognizing that the end of all things is at hand. This verse emphasizes the urgency of prayer in the midst of spiritual warfare, as it brings focus, clarity, and alertness to believers in their journey of faith.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 calls for a lifestyle of prayer, rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances. This passage emphasizes the continuous communication between believers and God, reinforcing the idea that prayer is not limited to specific times or situations. In the context of spiritual warfare, a constant attitude of prayer cultivates a deeper relationship with God and strengthens believers to face the challenges they encounter.

Intercessory prayer is a form of prayer where believers intercede on behalf of others, lifting their needs, concerns, and well-being before God. It is an act of selflessness and love, aligning with God's heart for all people and His desire to see them saved, blessed, and healed. The Scriptures highlight the importance and various aspects of intercessory prayer:

Ephesians 6:18-20 encourages believers to pray at all times with all kinds of prayers and supplications, being watchful and persevering. It emphasizes the need for intercession for all saints, including those who are in positions of authority and leadership. Intercessory prayer is vital for the spiritual well-being, protection, and effectiveness of God's people.

1 Timothy 2:1-8 emphasizes the broad scope of intercession, calling for supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings to be made for all people. This includes praying for kings, those in authority, and even our enemies. Intercessory prayer plays a role in creating an environment conducive to a peaceful and godly life, as well as fulfilling God's desire for all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

Matthew 5:43-46 encourages believers to pray for those who mistreat them and persecute them. Intercessory prayer extends beyond praying for the well-being of loved ones and extends to our enemies as well. By praying for our adversaries, we display the character of God and demonstrate our identity as His children.

Luke 10:2-3 highlights the importance of intercessory prayer in the context of evangelism and mission. Believers are called to pray for laborers to be sent out into the harvest field. Intercessory prayer prepares the way for the spread of the gospel and the work of God's kingdom. It acknowledges the need for spiritual empowerment and protection for those engaged in sharing the message of salvation.

2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 emphasizes the need for prayer support for ministers of the gospel. The passage urges believers to pray for the swift spread and glorification of the Word of God, as well as deliverance from opposition and unbelief. Intercessory prayer sustains and strengthens those who are proclaiming the gospel, enabling them to fulfill their calling effectively.

Psalm 122:6-7 instructs believers to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Intercessory prayer for the well-being and prosperity of the city and its inhabitants aligns with God's heart and contributes to the fulfillment of His purposes.

Romans 10:1 expresses the Apostle Paul's heartfelt desire and prayer for the salvation of Israel. Intercessory prayer is a powerful tool in seeking the salvation of others and aligning our desires with God's redemptive plan.

James 5:13-17 highlights the effectiveness of fervent and righteous prayer in various circumstances. It encourages believers to pray for one another, especially in times of suffering, sickness, and spiritual struggle. Intercessory prayer not only brings healing and restoration but also fosters unity and mutual support among believers.

2 Chronicles 7:13-15 emphasizes the significance of intercessory prayer in times of national or communal crisis. It reveals God's promise to hear and respond to the prayers of His people when they humble themselves, seek His face, and turn from wickedness. Intercessory prayer has the power to bring healing, forgiveness, and restoration to individuals, communities, and nations.

James 4:1-3 highlights the importance of asking God in prayer rather than relying on self-centered desires and pursuits. Intercessory prayer redirects our focus to seek God's will and align our requests with His purposes. It encourages believers to approach prayer with humility, seeking God.

The following Bible verses highlight the importance of prayers for the Church, both in specific situations and in general. Let's explore them in context:

Luke 22:31-32 records Jesus' prayer for Peter during a critical moment. Jesus acknowledges that Satan desires to sift Peter like wheat, but He intercedes for Peter's faith not to fail. This intercessory prayer demonstrates Jesus' care for His disciples and His desire to strengthen them. As a result, Jesus instructs Peter to strengthen his fellow disciples once he has returned. This passage emphasizes the power of intercession to sustain and empower believers in their faith and ministry within the Church.

John 17:1-24 records Jesus' prayer for His disciples just before His crucifixion. He prays specifically for those whom the Father has given Him, asking for their unity, protection from the evil one, and sanctification in the truth. Jesus intercedes on behalf of His followers, emphasizing their unique relationship with the Father and the importance of their unity. This passage underscores the significance of intercessory prayer for the spiritual well-being and unity of the Church.

Acts 1:14 portrays the early believers, including the women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers, gathered together in one accord, engaging in prayer and supplication. This unity in prayer sets the foundation for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the subsequent chapters of Acts. It highlights the vital role of communal prayer in the birth and growth of the early Church.

Acts 2:41-43 describes the response of the new believers after Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost. They were baptized and devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. This passage emphasizes the ongoing commitment of the early Church to prayer as a vital component of their corporate life. Their devotion to prayer was accompanied by signs and wonders, revealing the power and effectiveness of their prayers.

Acts 14:21-23 reveals Paul and Barnabas' practice of appointing elders in every church after their missionary journeys. They prayed with fasting and commended these new leaders to the Lord. This passage highlights the significance of intercessory prayer in the establishment and spiritual growth of local churches. It demonstrates the need for God's guidance and empowerment as leaders are appointed to shepherd and guide the believers.

Acts 16:25-26 depicts Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns to God while imprisoned in Philippi. Their prayer and worship in the midst of adversity result in a powerful manifestation of God's presence and deliverance. This account illustrates the transformative power of prayer and praise, showing how intercession can bring about supernatural breakthroughs even in challenging circumstances.

The remaining verses from Romans 1:8-11, 2 Corinthians 13:7-9, Ephesians 1:15-19, Philippians 1:8-11, Colossians 1:3-12, 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, and 3 John 1:2 emphasize the apostolic prayers and intercessions for various Christian communities. These passages demonstrate the apostles' continuous prayers for the spiritual growth, well-being, and knowledge of God's will among the believers. They reflect the heart of intercession within the early Church and highlight the importance of praying for one another's prosperity, health, spiritual development, and faithfulness.

Collectively, these verses underscore the significance of intercessory prayer within the Church, emphasizing unity, protection, spiritual growth, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. Intercession plays a vital role in sustaining believers, strengthening their faith, promoting unity, and bringing about transformation within the Church community.

1 John 5:14-17 speaks of the confidence we have in God when we pray according to His will. It assures us that if we ask anything in line with His will, He hears us and grants our petitions. The passage also addresses intercession for a brother who has sinned, highlighting the efficacy of such prayers in bringing life and restoration.

Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers not to be anxious but to bring their concerns and requests before God in prayer, accompanied by thanksgiving. By doing so, the peace of God, surpassing all understanding, guards their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. This passage emphasizes the importance of entrusting our worries and needs to God through prayer, which leads to inner peace and a deep sense of God's presence.

Summary and Action Items:

When considering the application of the principles of prayer and intercession to spiritual warfare, we recognize that spiritual warfare is a battle fought in the spiritual realm against spiritual forces of darkness. Prayer becomes a powerful weapon in this battle, enabling us to engage with God's power and authority.

  1. Be still and know that God is on the throne: Do not be anxious but present your concerns, worries, and desires to God in prayer. Express gratitude for His faithfulness and provision. Trust in His sovereignty and rest in His peace, knowing that He hears and answers according to His perfect will.
  2. Seek God's will: Align your prayers with God's will, as revealed in Scripture. Seek His guidance and direction in your personal life and the decisions you make. Pray for the Church to discern and follow God's will collectively.
  3. Pray according to God's will: As mentioned in 1 John 5:14-17, our prayers should align with God's will. Seek guidance from Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit to discern God's purposes in the spiritual warfare we encounter. Pray for His kingdom to come, His will to be done, and for victory over the schemes of the enemy.
  4. Pray for spiritual discernment: Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Therefore, it is crucial to pray for spiritual discernment, wisdom, and the ability to recognize the enemy's tactics and strategies. Ask God to reveal hidden schemes and to guide you in strategic prayer and spiritual warfare.
  5. Foster a culture of prayer: Encourage and participate in regular prayer gatherings within your local church or small groups. Seek opportunities to pray with fellow believers, interceding for one another, the Church, and the world.
  6. Engage in intercessory prayer: Just as Jesus prayed for His disciples and Paul requested prayer for himself and the spread of the gospel, we should intercede for fellow believers, leaders, and the Church at large. Pray for protection, strength, and discernment in the face of spiritual attacks. Intercede for individuals who are struggling with sin or facing spiritual battles, asking God to bring healing, deliverance, and restoration.
  7. Pray for protection and spiritual armor: Just as Paul encourages believers to put on the full armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18, we should pray for God's protection and the covering of spiritual armor. Pray for the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Seek God's empowerment and covering to withstand and overcome spiritual attacks.
  8. Pray with persistence and perseverance: Ephesians 6:18 encourages us to pray with all perseverance and supplication. Recognize that spiritual warfare may require ongoing and persistent prayer. Be steadfast in prayer, refusing to give up or be discouraged by the challenges faced. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and persevere in prayer until victory is manifested.
  9. Pray in unity: Just as the early Church gathered in one accord for prayer, seek opportunities to join with other believers in corporate prayer. Praying together in unity amplifies the power of our prayers and strengthens the spiritual warfare efforts. Engage in prayer meetings, prayer groups, or prayer partnerships to intercede collectively for spiritual breakthroughs.
  10. Cultivate a lifestyle of prayer: Prayer should not be limited to specific moments but should become a way of life. Develop a consistent and vibrant prayer life, maintaining a constant connection with God. Seek His presence, guidance, and empowerment through continual communion with Him.

By practicing these action items, we can participate in the spiritual growth and well-being of the Church, experience God's peace, and witness the transformative power of prayer in our lives and communities.

Remember, spiritual warfare is not fought in our own strength but in the power of God. By applying the principles of prayer and intercession in spiritual warfare, we can experience victory, see God's kingdom advance, and witness the defeat of the enemy's schemes. Stay rooted in God's Word, rely on the leading of the Holy Spirit, and persevere in prayer.

Sermon Audio

The Good Fight of Faith: Prayer Warriors

For more Bible verses to aid spiritual warfare prayers:
Interactive Spiritual Warfare Chart