Prayer and Promises

The Promise 

For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds…and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

— 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, ESV 

The Testimony 

For every class of temptations there is a remedy. We are not left to ourselves to fight the battle against self and our sinful natures in our own finite strength. Jesus is a mighty helper, a never-failing support. 

There are many who are really troubled because low, debasing thoughts come into the mind, and are not easily banished. Satan has his evil angels around us; and though they cannot read men’s thoughts, they closely watch their words and actions. Satan takes advantage of the weaknesses and defects of character that are thus revealed, and presses his temptations where there is the least power of resistance. He makes evil suggestions, and inspires worldly thoughts, knowing that he can thus bring the soul into condemnation and bondage. 

The mind must be restrained, and not allowed to wander. It should be trained to dwell upon the Scriptures, and upon noble, elevating themes. Portions of Scripture, even whole chapters, may be committed to memory, to be repeated when Satan comes in with his temptations... When Satan would lead the mind to dwell upon earthly and sensual things, he is most effectually resisted with “It is written.” 

God requires that we confess our sins and humble our hearts before him; but at the same time we should have confidence in him as a tender Father, who will not forsake those who put their trust in him. We do not realize how many of us walk by sight and not by faith. We believe the things that are seen, but do not appreciate the precious promises given us in his word. 

We should be much in prayer. We need Jesus as our counselor; at every step we need him as our guide and protector. If there was more praying, more pleading with God to work for us, there would be a greater dependence on him, and faith would be strengthened to take him at his word. It would be easier to believe that if we ask for grace or wisdom, we shall receive it; because his word says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” 

— The Review and Herald, April 8, 1884 

The Response 

Dear Father in heaven, thank You for not leaving it up to me to fight the battles against my sinful nature. It is You, not myself, that I put my trust in. I humble my heart before You, teach to walk by faith in Your precious promises. As I memorize Scripture for my divine weapon of warfare, I lay hold of Jesus and His grace. Guide me, O Lord, in Your everlasting way. Give me Your wisdom according to the promise, “Ask, and it will be given to you.”