“The dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.” Rev. 12:17
Heavenly Father, I’ve never been more aware of how much Satan hates the Bride of Jesus. Having lost your sons and daughters for eternity, the dark one will do anything he can to confuse, discourage, and harm us. We come to you today interceding for believers and churches in the pernicious crosshairs of Satan’s schemes (2 Cor. 2:11).
First of all, Father, we praise you for what Satan knows. “He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short” (Rev. 12:12). Make it shorter! He knows Jesus has already defeated him. He’s the mortally wounded dragon, whose head has been crushed (Gen 3:15), whose works have been destroyed (1 John 3:1-10), and whose destiny has been sealed (Rev 20:10).
Though we “tremble not for him,” knowing that one word from Jesus “will fell him” (A Mighty Fortress Is Our God) nonetheless, we are aware he is constantly threatening to “undo us”. So we pray for a fresh work of the Spirit in our hearts, and the hearts of our leaders—pastors, elders, deacons and staff. One of the most effective ways Satan attacks a church is by injecting the venom of distrust, divisiveness and disunity among its leaders. If leaders “bite and devour one another” (Gal. 5:15), before long, the whole church will follow suit.
Restore each of us to our first love relationship with Jesus (Rev. 2:4). Grant us the joy, clarity, and peace we experienced as new believers. And bring back convict-ability, civility and charity. Give us wisdom to deal with divisive personalities, complex issues, and systemic brokenness—each of which Satan loves to use to his advantage.
Center us on Jesus, fill us with your Spirit, and free us for neighbor love. Indeed, humble us, gentle us, and gladden us. For the glory of your name, Father, be swift and sure in answering our cry. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ exalted and triumphant name.
