Introduction
Greetings, beloved brothers and sisters in Christ! I come before you today in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with a message of hope and preparation. As we journey through life as Christians, our ultimate goal is to inherit the Kingdom of God—eternal life with our Creator. But this journey is not without its challenges. The world, the flesh, and the devil work tirelessly to distract us, deceive us, and draw us away from the path that leads to eternal life. It is only by staying spiritually vigilant, continually seeking God, and remaining in close communion with Him that we can remain faithful and prepared for heaven.
One of the most powerful tools that God has given us to stay on track is the gift of prayer. Prayer is not just an act of devotion; it is a weapon, a lifeline, and a means of spiritual preservation. Through prayer, we can guard our hearts, overcome the distractions of this world, and stay free from the influence of unclean spirits. Prayer is the key to keeping our focus on God and ensuring that we are prepared to inherit the Kingdom of God at the end of this life.
In this message, we will explore how prayer preserves the Christian life, prepares us for heaven, and keeps us free from distractions and the negative influence of unclean spirits.
1. Prayer: Our Spiritual Lifeline and Preserver
In the natural world, our physical bodies need nourishment, rest, and protection in order to thrive. Similarly, our spiritual lives need consistent nourishment and protection to grow and remain strong. Prayer is the spiritual nourishment that strengthens our relationship with God. It is through prayer that we are able to connect with the Creator, seek His will, and receive the grace we need to live holy lives.
Jesus Himself modelled the importance of prayer throughout His earthly ministry. In Matthew 26:41, He told His disciples, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” In these words, Jesus highlights the need for constant prayer as a defense against the temptations and distractions of the world. Through prayer, we invite God into our lives, asking Him to guard our hearts and minds and to help us stay on the path that leads to eternal life.
In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul instructs believers to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Prayer is not just a time of asking for things—it is a means of finding peace and protection. When we pray, we open ourselves to the peace of God, which guards our hearts from fear, anxiety, and the pressures of this world. This peace keeps us grounded and focused on our eternal home, preparing us for the day we will inherit the Kingdom of God.
2. Prayer Keeps Us Free from the Influence of Unclean Spirits
Unclean spirits, demons, and evil forces are constantly working to distract, deceive, and ensnare Christians. Their aim is to pull us away from God’s truth and lead us into sin, doubt, and spiritual apathy. We see this in the lives of many who are drawn into addictions, bitterness, lust, unforgiveness, and pride—areas where unclean spirits have taken hold. These spirits may not always be visible, but their effects are undeniable. The enemy uses them to attack our minds, emotions, and even our physical bodies in order to keep us from living in the freedom that Christ offers.
However, prayer is a powerful weapon against the influence of unclean spirits. In Matthew 17:21, Jesus makes a statement about casting out demons, saying, “This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” Prayer is essential in the process of deliverance from the influence of evil spirits. Through prayer, we invite the Holy Spirit to break the chains of bondage, to purify our hearts, and to set us free from the demonic strongholds in our lives.
Moreover, prayer strengthens our spiritual armor and keeps us aligned with God’s will, ensuring that we are not led astray. In Ephesians 6:11-12, Paul reminds us, “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.” Prayer is the key to accessing the power of the Holy Spirit, who equips us to stand firm against the spiritual forces of evil. By praying consistently, we fortify ourselves against the enemy’s attacks and remain free from his influence.
3. Prayer Keeps Our Focus on Heaven and Prepares Us for the Kingdom of God
Our journey as Christians is one of preparation—preparing to inherit the Kingdom of God. This world, with all its temptations and distractions, is not our final home. We are pilgrims passing through, called to live for eternity with our Heavenly Father. Prayer helps us keep our eyes fixed on that eternal prize and helps us maintain a mindset that is focused on heavenly things rather than earthly distractions.
In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul encourages believers, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Prayer is the way we align our hearts and minds with the will of God, reminding ourselves that our ultimate destination is heaven. As we pray, we are reminded of the eternal hope we have in Christ, and this keeps us from getting caught up in the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world.
Jesus also taught His disciples to pray with eternity in mind. In Matthew 6:10, during the Lord’s Prayer, He instructed them to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Prayer is not just about asking for material things or immediate relief; it is about submitting our will to God’s will and longing for the day when His Kingdom will be fully realized. Through prayer, we prepare our hearts for the return of Christ and for the inheritance of the Kingdom of God.
Prayer also helps us discern the voice of God and separate His truth from the lies of the enemy.
4. Prayer as a Defense Against Distraction and Deception
Distractions and deceptions are two of the enemy’s most effective tools in pulling believers away from their walk with God. The world is full of things that clamour our attention—social media, entertainment, the pursuit of success, the demands of daily life—and these distractions can easily shift our focus from God and His Kingdom. Moreover, the enemy uses lies, doubts, and temptations to cause confusion and lead us astray.
But prayer helps us remain steadfast and focused. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Paul encourages us to “pray without ceasing.” This is not merely an invitation to pray only during church services, but a call to live in constant communion with God. By maintaining a lifestyle of prayer, we keep our hearts focused on God and shield ourselves from the distractions and deceptions that could lead us away from the path to heaven.
Prayer also helps us discern the voice of God and separate His truth from the lies of the enemy. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” When we pray regularly, we learn to hear God’s voice more clearly, which enables us to discern His will and avoid the distractions of the world. As we align ourselves with God through prayer, we become more aware of His presence and less susceptible to the pull of sin and deception.
5. Prayer as a Means of Spiritual Growth and Endurance
Finally, prayer is essential for our spiritual growth and endurance. Living a Christian life that is pleasing to God requires more than just a momentary commitment—it requires constant growth and perseverance. Prayer is the means by which we are continually transformed into the likeness of Christ. As we pray, we open ourselves to the work of the Holy Spirit, who convicts us, strengthens us, and equips us to endure trials and temptations.
In Hebrews 12:1-2, we are exhorted to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Prayer helps us throw off the things that hinder us and run the race with endurance, keeping our eyes fixed on Christ.
Conclusion:
Beloved, prayer is not just an optional part of the Christian life; it is essential for our preservation, preparation, and ultimate inheritance of the Kingdom of God. Through prayer, we are preserved from the distractions of this world and the influence of unclean spirits. Prayer keeps us focused on heaven, aligned with God’s will, and prepared to endure until the end. It is through prayer that we find the strength to live lives pleasing to God and remain faithful to the calling He has placed on our lives.
Let us commit ourselves to a life of persistent prayer, staying connected to God, and walking in the power of the Holy Spirit. May our hearts be set on things above, and may we, through prayer, be prepared to inherit the Kingdom of God in the end.
Let us pray.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of prayer, which strengthens us, protects us, and keeps our hearts focused on You. Lord, we ask that You help us cultivate a lifestyle of prayer, so that we may remain free from the distractions of this world and the influence of unclean spirits. Keep our hearts fixed on heaven, and prepare us for the inheritance You have promised. Strengthen us to endure in faith, and guide us in every step we take. May our lives bring glory to Your name, and may we be ready to inherit Your eternal Kingdom. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Pastor Mrs Blessing John Okolo
