Chapter 47—Prayer Defeats Satan

BIBLE GEM

“Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”—Ephesians 6:11CWG 110.1

QUESTION

How only may we be victorious over Satan in the Christian warfare?CWG 110.2

ANSWER

The price of safety: “In the conflict with satanic agencies there are decisive moments that determine the victory either on the side of God or on the side of the prince of this world. If those engaged in the warfare are not wide awake, earnest, vigilant, praying for wisdom, watching unto prayer, ... Satan comes off victor, when he might have been vanquished by the armies of the Lord.CWG 110.3

“Spiritual vigilance on our part individually is the price of safety. Swerve not to Satan's side a single inch, lest he gain advantage over you.”—Ellen G. White Comments, The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 6:1094CWG 110.4

“Prayer brings Jesus to our side, and gives to the fainting, perplexed soul new strength to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil. Prayer turns aside the attacks of Satan.”—Christ's Object Lessons, 250CWG 110.5

Warfare against Satan lifelong: “We have before us a warfare—a lifelong conflict with Satan and his seductive temptations. The enemy will use every argument, every deception, to entangle the soul; and in order to win the crown of life, we must put forth earnest, persevering effort.”—Messages to Young People, 104CWG 110.6

“We must have on the whole armor of God and be ready at any moment for a conflict with the powers of darkness. When temptations and trials rush in upon us, let us go to God and agonize with Him in prayer. He will not turn us away empty, but will give us grace and strength to overcome, and to break the power of the enemy.”—Early Writings, 46CWG 110.7

Suppose we neglect to pray, or pray only occasionally: “Neglect the exercise of prayer, or engage in prayer spasmodically, now and then, as seems convenient, and you lose your hold on God. The spiritual faculties lose their vitality, the religious experience lacks health and vigor.”—Gospel Workers, 255CWG 111.1

Beware!: “Beware how you neglect secret prayer and a study of God's Word. These are your weapons against him who is striving to hinder your progress heavenward. The first neglect of prayer and Bible study makes easier the second neglect.”—Messages to Young People, 96CWG 111.2

Satan's insinuation: “The prayer of faith is the great strength of the Christian and will assuredly prevail against Satan. This is why he insinuates that we have no need of prayer. The name of Jesus, our Advocate, he detests; and when we earnestly come to Him for help, Satan's host is alarmed. It serves his purpose well if we neglect the exercise of prayer, for then his lying wonders are more readily received.”—Testimonies For The Church 1:296CWG 111.3

“An appeal to heaven by the humblest saint is more to be dreaded by Satan than the decrees of cabinets or the mandates of kings.”—Ellen G. White Comments, The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 2:1008CWG 111.4

SUMMARY AND PRAYER THOUGHT

Unfortunately, as long as we live, Satan will tempt us to sin. This is how we are tested and tried to see who we really want to serve. Praise God that every child of His who engages in persevering prayer of faith against temptation, and submits their will to God, the Holy Spirit will make a victorious Christian. Sin will have no dominion or power over us if we choose Jesus Christ as our Lord and Master.CWG 111.5

Thank You loving Father, that you will clothe us in Your armor to fight the good fight of faith in Your strength. There is no power on Heaven or on earth that can overcome a child of God who fully and completely trusts and obeys.CWG 111.6

Praise God for His love and mercy and mighty power to save.CWG 111.7