Paul is clear about who the real enemy is: “we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” The daily battle is not with the people who annoy us, but with fear, temptation, discouragement and evil itself. A daily battle prayer is a way of getting dressed for that.
Historical Context
Paul ends the armor passage with prayer: “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.” The armor is not a ritual you say once; it is a posture you keep all day, by praying through it.
A Daily Battle Prayer
Lord, I’m getting ready for today.
I put on the belt of truth: keep me honest.
The breastplate of righteousness: guard my heart.
The shoes of peace: let me bring peace wherever I go.
The shield of faith: stop the doubts and accusations thrown at me.
The helmet of salvation: protect my mind.
And the sword of the Spirit, your word: let me remember it when I need it.
I’m not fighting people today. I’m standing with you.
Amen.
A Short Prayer in Temptation
Lord Jesus, I’m under attack right now.
Be my shield. Give me the strength to walk away.
Amen.
The St Michael Prayer
St Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host,
by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan
and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Each morning, while getting dressed.
- Before a day you know will be a struggle.
- In temptation or spiritual heaviness.
- Before bed, if nights are when the attacks come.
Scripture Connection
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” — Ephesians 6:12
This verse changes how you see the people around you. The coworker, the ex, the difficult relative are not the enemy. Praying the armor of God is partly a way of remembering that.
Related prayers
The full passage is explored on the Armor of God Prayer page. For more on St Michael, see the Saint Michael Prayer, and for protection, the Prayer for Protection.