As followers of Jesus we’re in a spiritual battle. Though the ultimate war has been won, the enemy and his followers still operate as if victory is within their grasp. Satan, God’s enemy and ours, will do all he can to leave us discouraged, doubting, and defeated.

But God has not left us defenseless. He has provided spiritual armor for the spiritual battle, which includes a key offensive piece as well, the Sword of the Spirit—God’s Word. The following prayer is offered to help you prepare for the daily battle. Adapt it, make it your own, and pray in faith that the Lord not only hears your prayer but prepares you to experience His victory today.

Daily Victory Prayer—Based on Ephesians 6:10-18

Lord, I long to be strong in You and in Your mighty power—I’m desperately dependent upon You (v. 10). I’m reminded that I “do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (v. 12). Therefore, I pray that You will once again equip me with the full armor of God so that when evil comes, I may be able to stand my ground (v. 13).

EQUIP ME, LORD:

With the belt of truth (v. 14). May Your truth rule in my heart and be in my mind and on my lips today.

With the breastplate of righteousness (v. 14). Apart from You there is no righteousness, but through Jesus I have been “born again” and made righteous in Your sight. May I live as a righteous person.

With feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the Gospel of peace (v. 15). May I reflect the Gospel in my words and actions, that through me, with my every encounter, others may be drawn one step closer to You.

With the shield of faith (v.16). May I take You at Your word concerning promises about the present and future—promises of everlasting love, abundant life, and so much more.

With the helmet of salvation (v. 17). Remind me that nothing can separate me from Your love and that by grace I’ve been saved. In Your grace, help me to say “no” to all ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live a self-controlled, upright, and godly life (Titus 2:12,13).

And with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (v. 17). May Your Holy Spirit reign in my life and bring to my mind just the right Bible verses to be in my heart and on my lips. May I be filled with the Spirit and ready with Scripture as You were, Jesus, when the devil tempted You.

Finally, keep me in an attitude of prayer (v. 18). Help me to maintain a vibrant, up-to-date relationship with You, Lord, “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.”

Thank You that You hear the prayers of Your people, and that I am Your child. Help me to be Your person in this world today—salt and light, moment by moment.