Day 24 of 40 Days of Lent: Guarding Your Territory Against the Enemy

Beautiful imagery by @Koolshooters from City of Angels

Scriptural Basis: Psalm 22:16-19

"Dogs have surrounded me; a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment. But you, LORD, do not be far from me. You are my strength; come quickly to help me." – Psalm 22:16-19

Reflection: In Psalm 22, David describes a situation where the enemy surrounds him like a pack of dogs—vicious, relentless, and ready to attack. The imagery here is one of danger, feeling exposed, and being surrounded on all sides by those who seek to harm and destroy. David paints a picture of being physically and spiritually vulnerable, where everything seems to be coming against him. This is a real, raw experience that many of us face in different seasons of life, especially when it feels as though the enemy is closing in.

But in this passage, David doesn't simply describe his situation—he acknowledges his need for God’s intervention. When surrounded, when overwhelmed, and when under attack, David calls out to God for strength and help. The enemy may surround us like dogs, but we are not defenseless. We have a God who is our strength, and we can call upon Him for help in moments of weakness.

The enemy’s tactics can be varied—attacks on our mind, emotions, relationships, finances, or spiritual walk. In these times, we may feel as though we are losing ground or that our spiritual territory is under siege. Just like David, we must recognize that our strength comes from God and that He is always near to protect us.

What to Do When the Enemy Surrounds You:

1. Recognize the Attack: Like David, we must first recognize when the enemy is closing in. The enemy often comes in the form of doubt, fear, negativity, or direct opposition. By acknowledging the attack, we can prepare ourselves spiritually for the battle.

   
   

2. Call Out for Help: David does not try to face the enemy alone. He calls upon God for help, declaring that He is his strength. In our moments of attack, we must also call upon God, knowing that our strength and protection come from Him alone.

   
   

3. Stand Firm in Faith: When surrounded by the enemy, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and ready to retreat. However, we are called to stand firm, remembering that God is with us. Psalm 22 ends with a declaration of trust in God’s deliverance, even in the darkest moments. Standing firm in our faith means declaring God’s promises over our lives, even when we don't see immediate results.

   
   

4. Protect Your Territory with Prayer: Prayer is one of our greatest weapons of defense. Just as David called upon God, we too must call upon His name to guard and protect our territory. Prayer surrounds us with God's protection, keeping us safe from the enemy's schemes. It also strengthens our faith and reminds us that God is in control.

   
   

5. Use the Armor of God: Ephesians 6:10-18 teaches us to put on the full armor of God. This spiritual armor is designed to protect us in battle. It includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit, and the shoes of peace. Each piece is essential for standing firm in the face of the enemy’s attacks.

   
   

Application:

1. Stay Alert: Be aware of the tactics the enemy might use to surround you. Whether it's doubt, fear, or external challenges, stay vigilant and recognize when the enemy is trying to take ground.

   
   

2. Call Upon God's Strength: In moments of weakness, do not try to handle the attack alone. Call upon God as your strength and shield. He is near to help you, just as He was to David.

   
   

3. Defend Your Territory with Prayer and Scripture: Prayer is a powerful tool. Speak God's promises and declarations of protection over your life. Use the Word of God as your sword to cut through the enemy’s lies and schemes.

   
   

4. Stand in Faith: Even when the enemy seems to be closing in, stand firm. Trust that God is working on your behalf, and His deliverance is sure.

A Prayer for Today:

Lord, we come to You in times of attack, when it feels as though the enemy surrounds us like a pack of wild dogs. We acknowledge our need for Your strength and protection. Help us to stand firm in our faith, to recognize the enemy's schemes, and to call upon Your name for help. We put on Your full armor, knowing that You are with us and that Your protection will keep us safe. Thank You for being our strength and our shield. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection Question: What areas of your life feel like they are under spiritual attack? How can you call upon God’s strength and use prayer to protect your territory in those areas?

Stay Woke,