We're in a spiritual battle in this world, even if we can't always see it. The enemy wants to discourage and defeat us, especially if we're living as faithful believers. While we can't stop his attacks, we can stay close to God and be aware of Satan's schemes. Discover 15 Spiritual Warfare Scriptures to turn to when you encounter a spiritual battle.
God tells us in His word that we need to stay alert and aware of the devil's schemes and to stay close to Him. He is our source of strength and power that can withstand Satan's arrows. By turning to spiritual warfare prayers and the promises of God, you can overcome the darkness!
Praying God’s words back to Him, is a powerful weapon against the forces of evil. It is Truth going out. It reminds us that God knows our way and understands what we face today. It builds our faith and our trust in God. It guards our hearts and focuses our minds back on Him. It wins the battle.
Here are 15 Spiritual Warfare Scriptures for you to Read, Pray, and Memorize... Receive strength and power from God and go win the battle in the name of Jesus.
1. James 4:7
"Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." – James 4:7
James 4:7 advises believers on how to engage in spiritual warfare effectively. This verse begins by urging us to submit ourselves to God, acknowledging His authority and guidance in every area of life. This submission is essential in resisting the devil, who actively seeks to lead us away from God's path. By resisting the devil, we can actively oppose his schemes and temptations. The verse promises that when we submit to God and resist the devil, the enemy's influence weakens, and he is forced to flee. In essence, this verse highlights the importance of relying on God's strength and authority to overcome spiritual challenges and stand firm against the forces of darkness.
Listen Now: A Prayer for Strength Against Spiritual Warfare:
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/MartinBarraud
2. 1 John 4:4
"You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world." – 1 John 4:4
When we face the challenges and temptations of the world, this verse emphasizes that as children of God, we are equipped to overcome them! It encourages us to recognize that the One who resides within us, the Holy Spirit, is greater and more powerful than any opposing force in the world, including the influence of the evil one. This recognition is pivotal in our ability to navigate the spiritual battles that we encounter. By acknowledging the indwelling presence of God within us, we find the strength and assurance needed to stand firm, resist temptation, and emerge victorious in the face of adversity. This verse serves as a source of hope and confidence, reminding us that we are not alone in the struggle against spiritual warfare but have the ultimate source of power on our side in the battle.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Stockbyte
3. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." – 2 Cor 10:3-5
In 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, we are reminded that as believers, our approach to spiritual warfare differs significantly from the ways of the world. While we live in the world, we do not engage in spiritual battles using worldly methods. Our weapons are not physical or conventional but possess divine power. These spiritual weapons are capable of tearing down strongholds, which can be understood as barriers or obstacles that hinder our relationship with God.
Our unique arsenal empowers us to confront and dismantle arguments, ideologies, and any form of resistance that opposes the knowledge of God. We are called to take captive every thought, bringing it under the authority of Christ. In essence, this passage emphasizes that our battles in the spiritual realm require a distinct approach, one rooted in the authority of God and His Word. Through prayer, faith, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we have the ability to overcome strongholds and align our thoughts and actions with Christ, ultimately leading to victory in our spiritual warfare.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/chaiyapruek2520
4. 1 Peter 5:8-9
"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith." – 1 Pet 5:8-9
In 1 Peter 5:8-9, we are urged to exercise self-control and vigilance in our lives as followers of Jesus Christ. The verse portrays our adversary, the devil, as a prowling, roaring lion, constantly seeking opportunities to devour and undermine our faith. To counter this threat, we are instructed to resist the devil steadfastly by standing firm in our faith.
This passage underscores the importance of spiritual awareness and self-discipline in the face of spiritual warfare. Just as a watchful sentinel scans the horizon for danger, we too must be alert to the schemes of the enemy. By maintaining self-control and grounding ourselves in faith, we can effectively withstand the devil's attacks. Our unwavering trust in God and His promises becomes a formidable defense against the enemy's attempts to weaken our faith. This verse serves as a call to remain vigilant, resolute, and unwavering in our commitment to Christ, ensuring that we do not fall prey to the tactics of the adversary.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/BartekSzewczyk
5. Isaiah 54:17
"No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their vindication is from Me," declares the Lord." – Isaiah 54:17
In Isaiah 54:17, a powerful promise is conveyed to God's servants regarding their protection and vindication in the face of opposition. The verse asserts that no weapon formed against us will succeed, and any accusation brought against them will be condemned. This assurance is declared by the Lord Himself!
For those who serve the Lord, this verse serves as their inheritance—an invaluable spiritual legacy. It signifies that God's faithful servants are under His divine protection, shielded from harm, and defended against the schemes of their adversaries. When confronted with accusations or judgment, we can confidently rely on God for their vindication. This passage assures us of the unwavering presence and protection of God in the midst of spiritual battles. It instills a sense of security and confidence in the hearts of His servants, assuring them that no weapon or accusation can ultimately prevail against them.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Brooke Cagle
6. Ephesians 6:11-17
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." – Eph 6:11-17
Ephesians 6:11-17 paints a vivid picture of spiritual warfare, urging us as believers to equip ourselves with the full armor of God. This passage evokes a sense of urgency and determination as it calls upon us to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. The emotional depth in this passage lies in the visual imagery of putting on spiritual armor, each piece representing a crucial aspect of our defense: truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. It stirs feelings of resolve and commitment, emphasizing the need for unwavering faith and the readiness to engage in the spiritual battles we encounter, knowing that our victory is assured through God's divine protection and strength.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Fyletto
7. Romans 8:37
"In all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." – Rom 8:37
These words resonate deep within our hearts, reminding us that as believers, we are not merely survivors but victors in Christ. The trials, temptations, and challenges we face in the spiritual realm may be formidable, but through the boundless love of Jesus, we are empowered to overcome them. This verse stirs within us a profound sense of resilience and unwavering faith. It assures us that, regardless of the spiritual warfare and battles we encounter, the love of Christ envelops us, providing the strength and courage needed to emerge victorious. In times of spiritual conflict, we cling to this verse as a source of inspiration and a reminder that, with Christ by our side, we are not just conquerors but more than conquerors, prevailing over every obstacle that stands in our way.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/vchal
8. 1 Corinthians 15:57
"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." – 1 Cor 15:57
As we engage in spiritual warfare, the triumphant words of 1 Corinthians 15:57 fill our hearts with gratitude and unwavering hope. In the face of spiritual battles, we recognize that it is God Himself who grants us victory through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. This verse evokes a profound sense of thanksgiving and reassures us that, despite the challenges we encounter, ultimate triumph belongs to those who place their faith in the Lord. In the midst of spiritual warfare, we find solace and confidence in knowing that God's victorious power is at work within us, enabling us to overcome every obstacle and opposition we may face.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/kieferpix
9. Zechariah 4:6
"Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the Lord of hosts." – Zechariah 4:6
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/ipopba
10. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
"But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." – 2 Thes 3:3
As we face spiritual battles, we find solace in the knowledge that our God is not only faithful but also our source of strength. When we feel weak and vulnerable, His divine strength empowers us to stand firm and resolute. Moreover, the promise of protection from the evil one provides a sense of security and assurance. It reminds us that, despite the cunning and malevolent tactics of the adversary, the Lord's shield is our ultimate defense.
In times of spiritual warfare, this verse serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to God's unfailing presence. It encourages us to trust in His faithfulness, draw upon His strength, and take refuge in His protective embrace. As we face the challenges of spiritual conflict, we can rest assured that the Lord is with us, faithfully strengthening us and guarding us from the schemes of the evil one, enabling us to emerge victorious in our spiritual journey.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Mumemories
11. Luke 10:19
“Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.” – Luke 10:19
Luke 10:19 serves as a reminder of the authority and protection granted to believers by our Lord Jesus Christ - providing a profound sense of empowerment and assurance. It reminds us that as followers of Christ, we possess divine authority over the forces of darkness, represented symbolically as "serpents and scorpions." This authority extends over all the power of the enemy, assuring us that nothing can ultimately harm or overcome us as we rely on the protective mantle of our Savior. Luke 10:19 gives us a deep confidence in our ability to confront and triumph over spiritual adversaries, knowing that our authority is derived from the One who has already conquered the enemy.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Naassom_Azevedo
12. John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10
John 10:10 provides a beautiful reminder of who has ultimate victory over spiritual warfare. Here we see Jesus contrasts His mission with the destructive intentions of the enemy, often referred to as the thief. The thief's sole purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy, symbolizing the malevolent forces at work in the spiritual realm. This verse acknowledges the existence of a real and ongoing battle for the souls of humanity, with the enemy seeking to rob individuals of their peace, joy, and spiritual abundance.
However, Jesus presents Himself as the embodiment of divine hope and salvation. His mission is to grant believers not just life but life in abundance. In the context of spiritual warfare, this verse emphasizes that Jesus has come to counteract the destructive forces that seek to harm and oppress. He offers abundant life, which includes spiritual vitality, freedom from the enemy's grasp, and an overflowing richness of faith, love, and purpose. This verse serves as an invitation to embrace Christ's redemptive power, finding refuge in His abundant life even in the midst of spiritual battles, ultimately triumphing over the thief's attempts to steal and destroy.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Naassom Azevedo
13. Matthew 18:18-19
"Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." – Matthew 18:18-19
In these verses, Jesus imparts a powerful lesson about the authority and effectiveness of unified prayer among believers. He affirms that whatever is bound or loosed on earth will have corresponding consequences in heaven, underscoring the spiritual authority given to His followers. This authority is a critical tool in spiritual warfare, signifying the power to restrain and overcome the forces of darkness.
When two or more align their hearts and petitions in unity, there is a divine assurance that their requests will be granted by the Father in heaven. This unity in prayer becomes a formidable weapon in spiritual battles, enabling believers to call upon the heavenly resources and support needed to confront and overcome adversity.
Matthew 18:18-19 reminds believers of their authority and the power of unified, fervent prayer. It serves as a call to come together, to pray in agreement, and to invoke the divine intervention and victory needed to prevail against the spiritual challenges we face.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Ig0rZh
14. Deuteronomy 28:7
"The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways.” – Deuteronomy 28:7
In the spiritual battles we face. this verse serves as a source of unwavering confidence. It assures us that the Lord Himself will intervene on our behalf, causing our enemies to be defeated before us.
The imagery of the enemies coming against us in one direction but fleeing in seven different directions underscores the thoroughness of God's deliverance. In spiritual warfare, this verse becomes a symbol of the all-encompassing protection and victory we can expect when we place our trust in the Lord. It instills in us the assurance that no matter how overwhelming the opposition may seem, God's power is greater, and He will scatter our adversaries, leaving us standing in triumph. Deuteronomy 28:7 serves as a reminder that in the battles of life, we have an invincible ally in the Lord, who ensures our victory over every enemy that rises against us.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/RonTech2000
15. John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." – John 16:33
Here, Jesus prepares His disciples for the inevitable challenges they will face in a fallen world, emphasizing that trouble and adversity are an inherent part of life. This verse acknowledges the reality of the battles we encounter, both spiritually and in our earthly journey, which can often be daunting and disheartening.
However, Jesus provides a powerful source of solace and encouragement by declaring, "But take heart! I have overcome the world." In these words, He assures us that despite the trials and tribulations, He has already conquered the world and all the forces of darkness. This promise becomes a beacon of hope and a reminder that, in Christ, we can find peace even in the midst of chaos and conflict.
In the realm of spiritual warfare, John 16:33 instills a profound sense of courage and resilience. It encourages us to embrace the peace that is found in Christ, knowing that He has triumphed over the world's troubles. This verse serves as a reminder that, while we may encounter challenges, our ultimate victory is assured through our unwavering faith in the One who has overcome the world.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Kieferpix
We are secure in God.
When we belong to Christ, the enemy never has the final word over our lives. We are secure in God's hands.
This slideshow is adapated from the article, 31 Spiritual Warfare Scriptures, written by Debbie McDaniel.
Debbie McDaniel is a writer, pastor's wife, mom to three amazing kids (and a lot of pets). Join her each morning on Fresh Day Ahead's facebook page DebbieWebbMcDaniel, for daily encouragement in living strong, free, hope-filled lives. Find her also at http://twitter.com/debbmcdaniel and http://www.debbiemcdaniel.com.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Rawpixel
Originally published Monday, 05 April 2021.
