top of page

How to Pray When You’re Under Spiritual Attack

Waging Spiritual Warefare When You Are Under Attack

Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12, “For we 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.”


The fact is, whether we like it or not, we’re not just battling against the things that we DO see, we are also battling against things we DON’T see in the spiritual realm. And if you choose to ignore this fact, then more than likely, you’re probably not winning the battle that you’re currently in.


Paul mentioned this same idea in 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, when he wrote, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.” 


The main thing to remember is whether we understand what type of battle it is, or what level it’s fought on, all spiritual warfare comes from the evil one, whose sole objective is to destroy us.  


That’s why 1 Peter 5:8 warns us to be sober-minded and watchful, because our adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.


And even though Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:12 that our battles are spiritual, he also gives us the remedy in the very next verse (Eph 6:13) – “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” 


how to pray when under spiritual attack

Armor Yourself By Staying Connected To God's Truth & Word

So, what is the whole armor God that allows us and equips us to wage spiritual warfare on the enemy?  Well, Paul tells us everything we need to put on for battle in Ephesians 6:14-18 – “Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.”


The key points in this scripture for waging spiritual warfare when you’re under spiritual attack are:


  • The belt of truth (the security and understanding of the foundation of our faith) 

  • The breastplate of righteousness (to protect and guard our spiritual heart in Christ)

  • The shoes for your feet (spiritual readiness and preparedness with God’s truth/the gospel)

  • The shield of faith (to protect us from fear and unbelief that comes from the enemy)

  • The helmet of salvation (knowing our freedom in Christ; that we are saved and will be saved)

  • The sword of the Spirit (the word of God is your most effective weapon against Satan)


The sword of the Spirit is the only offensive weapon mentioned, and we’re told we should be using it at “all times,” not just when we’re under spiritual attack.  Hebrews 4:12 tells us just how powerful the God’s word is, For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”


spiritual battle

Fighting Spiritual Battles Is Your Call To Stand in God's Principles & Scripture

The truth is, without the strength of God and the protection of spiritual armor, it is impossible to stand against the attacks of spiritual enemies.  God has given us a call, a mission, a course to fulfill, and Satan will do his best to stop it. 


When the enemy attacks and tries to intimidate us, we are called to STAND.  That’s what Paul is emphasizing in Ephesians 6:11 and 6:13; we are to do the Lord’s work and stand against every hint of spiritual opposition.


We are to stand in grace (Romans 5:2).

We are to stand in the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1).

We are to stand in courage and strength (1 Corinthians 16:13).

We are to stand in Christian liberty (Galatians 5:1).

We are to stand in Christian unity (Philippians 4:1).

And we are to stand perfect and complete in the will of God (Colossians 4:12).


But please understand, WE ARE GOING TO BE ATTACKED.  That means we must not be frightened. It means that we must not droop or slouch; not be uncertain or half-hearted in the fight (i.e., no self-pity is allowed). It means that we are always in position and alert, and it means retreating isn’t even an option.


So, if we want to effectively wage spiritual warfare when we’re under spiritual attack, we must simply put on the armor of God and exercise our spiritual strength through prayer


prayer against satan

Praying Against Spiritual Attacks

When it comes to spiritual attacks, there are all kinds of prayer you can engage in. And you should use every kind of prayer you can think of -- group prayer, individual prayer, silent prayer, shouting prayer, walking prayer, kneeling prayer, eloquent prayer, groaning prayer, constant prayer, fervent prayer – it doesn’t matter, just pray.


But to get you started, I’d like to share this prayer with you that you can use the next time you find yourself under spiritual attack. Let it be a tool (spiritual weapon) you can use in times of spiritual struggle. 


“Heavenly Father, I come before You with (name the struggle: a heavy heart, feeling burdened by discouragement, worry, depression, doubt, shame, hurt, sadness, loneliness, fear, self-pity, anger, unforgiveness, hopelessness, and insecurity). Lord, I lay these struggles at Your feet, knowing that You are the only one who can heal and restore me completely.


Father, Your Word says that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. I ask for Your presence to fill every broken and wounded place within me. Replace my discouragement with hope, my worry with peace, and my depression with joy that comes from You. Lord, help me to trust in Your perfect love and faithfulness, even when I cannot see the way forward.


Lord, I confess my doubt and insecurity, and I ask that You remind me of who I am in Christ. I am fearfully and wonderfully made, chosen, redeemed, and deeply loved by You. Help me to stand firm on the truth of Your Word and to reject every lie of the enemy.


Praying Against Spiritual Attacks

In my moments of shame and hurt, Lord, remind me of the power of Your forgiveness and grace. Help me to forgive myself and others as You have forgiven me, so I may release any bitterness and walk in freedom. Heal the wounds of sadness and loneliness, Lord, and let me experience the comfort of Your presence. You are my refuge, my friend, and my ever-present help in trouble.


Lord, I surrender my anger and self-pity to You. Fill me with patience, understanding, and a heart of gratitude. Replace hopelessness with the assurance that You have good plans for me, plans to give me a future and a hope. Strengthen my faith so I may trust in Your sovereignty even when life feels uncertain.


Holy Spirit, empower me to walk in victory over fear, doubt, and insecurity. Guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus, and renew my thoughts daily with Your truth. Surround me with Your love and peace, and remind me that I am never alone because You are always with me.


Thank You, Father, for being my refuge and my strength. Thank You for the victory I have in Jesus Christ. I declare that no weapon formed against me shall prosper, and I stand on the truth that I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me.


I give You all the glory and praise, trusting that You are working all things together for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray. Amen.”


spiritual warfare

Remember, even when you’re under spiritual attack, you are deeply loved, and you’re not fighting this battle alone; God is fighting for you.  And if you would like a team of godly brothers to also join you in the fight, make sure you check out our private, exclusive brotherhood called The Real Men 300.


bottom of page