Prayers to Strengthen Your Marriage Against Spiritual Attacks

As we navigate through life, the sanctity of marriage can often be tested by various challenges. Reflecting on our own journey, I recall a pivotal moment when our marriage faced a significant crisis. It was around our 20th year together, a time when statistics show many marriages, even Christian ones, are at risk of falling apart. We turned to a wise friend, a counselor, whose insights and scriptural guidance were instrumental in our reconciliation.

Our marriage was teetering on the edge, but with fervent prayer, wise counsel, and God's grace, we managed to restore our bond. Now, nearing our 35th anniversary, we understand the relentless spiritual warfare that seeks to undermine Christian marriages. As 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, "our adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Our defense lies in embracing God's presence and using His truth as our shield.

Ephesians 6:10-18 speaks to the necessity of spiritual armor:

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes... Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place... Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests."

Here are four prayers to fortify your marriage:

1. We Desperately Need Your Guidance

Father, we acknowledge our desperate need for Your guidance (Psalm 107:6). Without Your Holy Spirit's wisdom, we cannot love each other as You command (John 14:26). Help us to be the spouses You have called us to be, standing firm against the enemy's daily assaults (Ephesians 6:16).

2. Grant Us Hearts of Humility and Grace

Lord, give us the grace to view each other through Your loving eyes (James 4:6). Foster within us hearts that are swift to repent (2 Peter 3:19), forgive (Colossians 3:13), and resolve conflicts in a way that glorifies You (Ephesians 4:26–27). Let us be humble enough to seek help when necessary (Proverbs 12:15).

3. Cultivate Compassion in Our Hearts

God, plant in us hearts of compassion (Ephesians 4:32; 1 Peter 3:8). Teach us to prioritize each other's needs (Philippians 2:3-4), to encourage one another daily (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and to always assume the best intentions (1 Corinthians 13:7).

4. Teach Us to Love Unconditionally

Father, guide us to understand true love from Your Word (Romans 12:10; 1 Peter 2:17). Help us to love without conditions, to be patient with each other's shortcomings (Ephesians 4:2-3), and to communicate with love. May our love for each other deepen, binding our hearts together with You (Colossians 2:2-3).

Thank you, Lord, for Your Word and for equipping us with all we need to live godly lives and honor You in our marriage (1 Peter 1:3). When others ask how we've managed to stay together, let us give You all the glory, acknowledging that we are merely following Your expectations (Luke 17:10).

"Glory belongs to God, whose power is at work in us. By this power he can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine. Glory belongs to God in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time and eternity! Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21