The Armour Of God And Prayer Series

THE ARMOUR OF GOD AND PRAYER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 6:10-18

Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 10:4, Hebrews 4:12, James 4:7, Isaiah 59:17

INTRODUCTION:

The Christian walk is filled with spiritual battles, and as intercessors, we must be equipped to stand firm in the face of spiritual warfare. God has provided us with an armour to protect and empower us as we engage in prayer. This sermon will focus on the spiritual armour outlined in Ephesians 6 and how it equips intercessors to pray effectively, defend against the enemy, and stand victorious in the spiritual realm.

1. THE CALL TO BE STRONG IN THE LORD

Before we can engage in spiritual warfare, we must be strong in the Lord and His mighty power.

a) Strength through the Lord (Ephesians 6:10)

Our strength is not in our own abilities, but in the Lord’s power and might. We must rely on His strength to face the battles ahead.

b) The importance of standing firm (Ephesians 6:11)

To stand firm, we must put on the full armour of God. Prayer is our means of standing against the devil’s schemes.

c) Understanding our enemies (Ephesians 6:12)

We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers in the heavenly realms.

d) The need for preparedness (1 Peter 5:8-9)

Being alert and sober-minded allows us to resist the enemy and stand firm in our faith.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11)

Jesus stood firm against Satan’s temptations by relying on God’s Word, demonstrating the importance of spiritual strength and preparation.

2. THE BELT OF TRUTH

The first piece of armour that protects us is the belt of truth. Truth is foundational in the life of an intercessor.

a) The truth of God’s Word (John 17:17)

God’s Word is truth, and as intercessors, we must base our prayers on His unchanging truth.

b) The role of truth in prayer (Psalm 119:160)

When we pray in line with the truth of Scripture, we align ourselves with God’s will and His power.

c) Integrity in the inner life (Proverbs 12:22)

God desires truth in our inward parts, and we must ensure our hearts are aligned with His truth when we pray.

d) Discerning falsehood (2 Corinthians 10:5)

We must be able to recognize lies and deceptions from the enemy and counter them with the truth of God’s Word.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus’ response to Satan’s lies (Matthew 4:3-4)

Jesus countered every temptation with the truth of God’s Word, demonstrating the power of truth in spiritual warfare.

3. THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

The breastplate of righteousness protects our hearts, the seat of our emotions and desires.

a) Righteousness through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Our righteousness is not based on our works but on the finished work of Jesus Christ.

b) Living a righteous life (Romans 6:13)

We must live righteous lives, staying in right standing with God to guard our hearts in prayer.

c) The importance of a pure heart (Matthew 5:8)

A pure heart is crucial for effective intercession. It allows us to be vessels through which God can work.

d) Guarding our hearts in prayer (Proverbs 4:23)

Our hearts must be guarded from bitterness, unforgiveness, and unrighteousness so that we can pray with power.

e) Biblical Example: David's righteousness (Psalm 15:1-2)

David’s heart for righteousness and purity made him a man after God’s own heart, and his prayers were powerful.

4. THE SHOES OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE

Our feet are fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, which empowers us to take the message of hope to others.

a) Prepared to advance God’s kingdom (Romans 10:15)

As intercessors, we are ready to pray for the advancement of God’s kingdom, bringing peace and reconciliation.

b) Standing firm in peace (Philippians 4:7)

Peace is an essential foundation for effective prayer, and it is the peace of God that guards our hearts and minds.

c) Spreading the gospel through prayer (Colossians 4:3-4)

Through prayer, we can intercede for the salvation of souls, spreading the gospel’s peace.

d) Walking in peace with others (Matthew 5:9)

Our relationships with others must be marked by peace, which enhances our effectiveness in prayer.

e) Biblical Example: Paul’s missionary journey (Acts 16:25-34)

Paul and Silas spread the peace of the gospel even in prison, and their prayers led to a miraculous breakthrough.

5. THE SHIELD OF FAITH

The shield of faith is essential in deflecting the enemy's attacks.

a) Faith in God’s promises (Hebrews 11:1)

Faith is the foundation of our prayers. We must trust in God’s promises as we intercede for others.

b) Using faith to quench the enemy’s fiery darts (Ephesians 6:16)

The enemy will try to discourage us with doubt and fear, but faith in God’s Word extinguishes these attacks.