The admonition to ‘know your enemy’ can be traced back to The Art of War, a seminal work by the ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu, dating back to the 5th century BC. The full quote reads, “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the outcome of a hundred battles.”
The idea of understanding one’s enemy as a vital component of warfare strategy has its roots in the Greco-Persian wars. In a spiritual context, knowing your enemy goes beyond merely recognizing individuals or political systems. It also includes identifying situations to avoid, attitudes that hinder your growth, and anything that threatens your identity as a disciple of Yeshua, our Messiah.
The Spiritual War Begins
This earthly realm in which we live is a spiritual battleground fraught with ‘friendly fire’, fiery darts, and deception. This is why the admonition to know your enemy is so prevalent throughout the Scriptures.
The adversary of our souls revealed his true nature in Eden when he deceived Chavah (Eve) by asking, “Did El truly say?” His initial attack was aimed at sowing doubt in Chavah’s mind. By prompting her to question the Father’s intentions toward both herself and Adam, he set in motion a chain of events that has led humanity to endure untold suffering throughout the ages.
As a result of the couple’s insurrection against their Creator, Adam’s offspring have had to fight their way through this spiritual matrix of deception we call life. Even though the Prophets tried to break the spell of unbelief, the ultimate red pill moment wouldn’t come until Yeshua’s ministry.
In Sun Tzu’s The Art of War there are five major truisms to keep in mind when preparing for battle:
All warfare is based on deception.
If you know your enemy and know yourself, you can fight a hundred battles without disaster.
In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.
The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.
Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.
Let’s see how this advice stacks up against Yah’s Word.
#1 Warfare is Based on Deception
Military warfare is fundamentally rooted in deception as a means to gain strategic advantage over an opponent. Deception can take various forms, including misinformation, camouflage, diversion, and PSYOPs1. These methods are all aimed at misleading an enemy about one’s true intentions and capabilities.
By spreading false information, a military force can create confusion and uncertainty within enemy ranks, leading opponents to make poor decisions based on incorrect assumptions. Case in point, the Eden insurrection whereby the first couple rebelled against their Creator due to misinformation coming from the serpent – the enemy.
Now the serpent was more crafty than any other animal of the field which Yahweh God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God indeed say, ‘You shall not eat from any tree in the garden’?” The woman said to the serpent, “From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat, but from the tree that is in the midst of the garden, God said, ‘You shall not eat from it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die’.” But the serpent said to the woman, “You shall not surely die. For God knows that on the day you both eat from it, then your eyes will be opened and you both shall be like gods, (like one of us) knowing good and evil.” And the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was a delight to the eyes, and the tree was desirable to make one wise, and she took from its fruit and she ate. And she gave it also to her husband with her, and he ate. And the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed together fig leaves and they made for themselves coverings. Genesis 3: 1-7 LEB
Speaking on the danger of listening to doctrinal enemies, otherwise known as false apostles, Paul warned:
But I am afraid lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds may be led astray from the sincerity and the purity of devotion to Christ. 2 Corinthians 11:3 LEB
Remember, Adam was not deceived. However, he was complicit as an enabler of Chavah’s sin and allowed his wife to usurp his Yah-ordained authority. (1 Timothy 2:14)
Employing physical deception (camouflage) such as disguising troops or equipment prevents the enemy from accurately assessing one’s strength and strategy. The enemy of our souls, otherwise known asSatan (Azazel), will often disguise himself and his hordes of unclean spirits as angels of light in their strategy to deceive the elect.
Many times the enemy will create diversions and can redirect our focus and resources, allowing for a more favorable engagement at a more opportune time. In the Bible, there are several instances where Satan attempts to divert Yeshua from His mission as the Savior or trap him. Here are a few key examples:
The 40 days of testing in the wilderness
After his immersion (baptism) Yeshua was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13) where he fasted for 40 days and nights. During this time, Satan approached him with three specific temptatins:
Satan challenged Yeshua to use his divine power to satisfy hunger.
Satan quoted scripture, suggesting that angels would save him — testing Yah.
Satan promised Yeshua power and glory if he would worship him in his attempt to divert him from his cup of suffering that would ultimately lead to death and resurrection as High Priest.
Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. Luke 4:13 NKJV
Peter’s interference with Yeshua’s mission
After Yeshua foretold His suffering, death, and resurrection, Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!” Jesus responded, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” (Matthew 16:21-23) This incident illustrates how even well-meaning individuals can be influenced by Satanic thoughts to divert Yeshua from His mission.
False witnessesat his trial
During His trial, false witnesses were brought against Yeshua, and He was accused of blasphemy before the High Priest (Matthew 26:57-68). This manipulation and deceit can be seen as a work of Satan to undermine His mission by leading to His condemnation and crucifixion, (which ultimately backfired).
Deception also plays a key role in the enemy’s psychological operations, where the goal is to instill fear, doubt, or confusion in the believer. This serves to weaken our resolve and scatter our focus.
Joshua was not immune from deception. We read in Joshua 9:1-15 that after the Israelites had conquered Jericho and Ai, the Gibeonites, who were inhabitants of a nearby city, feared for their lives. To protect themselves, they devised a plan meant to deceive the Israelites. The Gibeonites sent a delegation to Joshua, pretending to be ambassadors from a distant land. They wore worn-out clothes, carried old sacks, and brought dry and moldy bread to support their claim that they had traveled from far away.
When they approached Joshua, they stated that they had heard of the great deeds of the Israelites and requested a peace treaty. Joshua and the leaders of Israel, without seeking counsel from God, examined their provisions and accepted their story at face value. They made a covenant with the Gibeonites, agreeing to spare them and allow them to live. Later, the truth was revealed when the Israelites discovered that the Gibeonites were actually their neighbors. Despite being deceived, Joshua honored the covenant made with them, choosing to protect the Gibeonites rather than break the oath.
The successful application of deception in warfare can lead to a significant advantage, enabling one side to outmaneuver and outsmart the other, ultimately influencing the outcome of conflicts. This incident highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance and being cautious in decision-making, as Joshua’s failure to consult Yahuah led to a significant and unintended alliance.
Spiritual Warfare PSYOPs
Psychological operations (Psyops) in the context of the Bible can be seen in instances where strategic deception or manipulation was used to achieve a particular goal. Here are two examples that demonstrate how psychological strategies were employed in biblical narratives to influence behavior and decision-making.
1. The Deception of the Israelites by the Spies (Numbers 13-14):
When Moses sent twelve spies to scout the land of Canaan, ten of them returned with a negative report, emphasizing the strength of the inhabitants and the fortified cities. Their fear-mongering created panic among the Israelites, leading them to doubt God’s promise and rebel against entering the Promised Land. This psychological manipulation had a profound impact, causing the entire nation to wander in the desert for an additional forty years due to their lack of faith.
2. Absalom’s Conspiracy Against David (2 Samuel 15):
Absalom, King David’s son, engaged in a psychological operation to undermine his father’s authority and win the hearts of the people. He would stand by the city gate and offer to hear the grievances of those coming to seek justice from the king. By presenting himself as a more approachable and just leader, Absalom sowed seeds of discontent among the people regarding David’s rule. This manipulation of public perception ultimately led to a rebellion against David, illustrating how psychological tactics can be employed to shift loyalty and influence the masses.
#2 Knowing Your Enemy and Yourself Averts Disaster
David pretended to be insane to escape King Saul’s pursuit in a dramatic episode found in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. After fleeing from Saul, David sought refuge in the city of Gath, where he was recognized by the servants of King Achish. Fearing for his life, David devised a plan to feign madness.
To convince Achish that he was unhinged, David acted erratically, letting saliva run down his beard and scratching marks on the doors of the gate. His bizarre behavior led Achish to believe that David posed no threat and was not worth keeping as a prisoner. Achish dismissed David, saying he had enough madmen and did not need another. This clever ruse allowed David to escape from a dangerous situation, showcasing his resourcefulness and ability to think quickly under pressure.
We often believe that the flesh and blood people who cause problems in our lives are our enemies. But we must remember that unclean spirits that make up Satan’s kingdom are guiding their thoughts and actions. Our analysis of each situation we face must be rooted in this deeper understanding of what’s really going on ‘behind the curtain.’
Finally my brothers, be strong in Yahuah and the power of His might. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities2, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness3 of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places4. Ephesians 6: 10-12.
Be sober, be on alert; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: Resist him, steadfast in your faith because you know the same kinds of sufferings are being accomplished by your community of believers in the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9
Sometimes Satan appears as an ‘angel of light’ and sometimes as ‘a roaring lion.’ The lion here is not the crouching lion, the one who creeps toward his foe. But it is the raging monarch of the woods, who by his terrible roar intimidates all so that they might become easy prey. This is how persecution manifests itself. Lions roar when they are hungry.
We must be watchful and calmat all times as we cast our care upon the Most High Elohim. We should stay alert and careful to exercise circumspection, as one does when he is in danger. Satan will always oppose us through unclean spirits. He will always resist our efforts to do good in our goal to achieve salvation.
#3 In the Midst of Chaos There is Also Opportunity
One notable example of chaos within the camp of Israel’s enemy that led to victory is found in the story of Gideon and the Midianites. (Judges 7:19-22)
Gideon, chosen by Yah to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites, was instructed to reduce his army to just 300 men. Armed with trumpets, empty jars, and torches, Gideon and his men surrounded the Midianite camp at night. At Gideon’s signal, they blew their trumpets, broke the jars, and shouted, “The sword of Yahuah and for Gideon!”
The sudden noise and the sight of the torches created confusion and panic among the Midianite soldiers. Believing they were under attack from a large force, the Midianites turned on each other in chaos, leading to a significant defeat. The Israelites, witnessing the turmoil, were able to pursue the fleeing Midianites and achieve a decisive victory.
This event illustrates how Yahuah can use confusion and disorder within the enemy camp to bring about victory for His people, emphasizing the power of divine intervention in battle.
#4 The Supreme Art of War is to Subdue the Enemy Without Fighting
Sun Tzu emphasizes the idea that the best victory is one achieved without direct conflict. To “subdue the enemy without fighting” means to outsmart or outmaneuver opponents through strategy, diplomacy, or psychological tactics, leading them to surrender or defeat themselves. This approach conserves resources, minimizes loss, and maintains stability, showcasing the superiority of strategic thinking over brute force.
The story of Jericho, particularly the biblical account of its fall, is often cited as an example of defeating an enemy without traditional battle, aligning with principles found in The Art of War.
In the account, the Israelites, led by Joshua, were instructed to march around the city of Jericho for six days, and on the seventh day, they circled the city seven times. They then blew their trumpets, and the walls of Jericho miraculously collapsed, allowing them to enter the city without a conventional siege or battle.
This example aligns several key biblical principles with Sun Tzu’s teachings:
Faith in Yah’s strategy is always superior to brute force. The Israelites used a unique strategy that relied on psychological warfare and divine intervention rather than direct confrontation.
Preparation and timing is key. The careful planning and the timing of the march around Jericho reflect the importance of preparation and obedience to Yah’s commands.
Psychological warfare. The act of marching around the city and the sound of trumpets could be seen as a form of psychological warfare, instilling fear and uncertainty in the inhabitants of Jericho; manipulating the enemy’s perceptions and morale.
Avoidance of prolonged conflict. By defeating Jericho without a drawn-out battle, the Israelites avoided the costs and risks associated with prolonged warfare.
#5 Victorious Warriors Win First, Then Go To War
“Victorious warriors win first and then go to war” means that successful leaders plan and strategize thoroughly before engaging in battle. They ensure they have the advantage, whether through superior tactics, intelligence, or resources, and thus are more likely to achieve victory. This advice looks like this in the life of a believer:
Preparation for battle through prayer and fasting
Reliance on the Ruach for wisdom and direction
Understanding that the battle belongs to Yah, but preparation is our responsibility
Conversely, “defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win” implies that those who rush into conflict without adequate preparation or understanding of their situation often face defeat. Our Messiah had much to say about the importance of planning, because the battle begins in our minds first.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it— lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish’? Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is still a great way off, he sends a delegation and asks for conditions of peace. So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
For although we are living in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not merely human, but powerful to God for the tearing down of fortresses, tearing down arguments and all pride that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
“We Have Met the Enemy and He Is Us”
The statement “We have met the enemy and he is us” originated from cartoonist Walt Kelly. He used it in a 1970 comic strip featuring his character Pogo. The phrase has since become a popular expression reflecting the idea that our greatest challenges often come from within ourselves. We can become our own worst enemy, especially when we ignore the wisdom of scripture.
…It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of Eloah.
Matthew 4:4
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, both joints and marrow, and able to judge the reflections and thoughts of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
We must be willing to allow Yah to humble us as we go through life so he can eventually lift us up. There is no way any of us will be victorious in spiritual warfare until we recognize the sovereignty of the Most High and surrender to His will.
3 And he humbled you and let you go hungry, and then he fed you with that which you did not know nor did your ancestors know, in order to make you know that not by bread alone but by all that goes out of the mouth of Yahuah humankind shall live.
Deuteronomy 8:3
While Sun Tzu’s philosophies on war are certainly thought-provoking, we must prioritize the Word of Yah. According to the Word, the first step toward eternal success is to believe in Yeshua Messiah, our High Priest. Our helmet represents salvation, and our sword is the Word of Elohim. By understanding our identity in the Messiah and staying true to His commands throughout our lives, we can ultimately achieve resurrection to eternal life. Through the wisdom and guidance of the Ruach, we can be victorious whenever we engage in spiritual warfare.
FOOTNOTES
1 PSYOP, or Psychological Operations, is a military operation that uses non-combative means to influence the state of mind of an enemy. The goal of PSYOP is to influence the behavior of governments, organizations, groups, and large foreign powers.
2 Principalities: G746 = arche – chief,( in various applications of order, time, place or rank): magistrate, power, rule
3 Darkness: G4655=skotos – shadiness, that is, obscurity (literally or figuratively)
Often in preparation for effective prayer we see prayer and fasting coupled together. In Acts 13:2-3, the early church in Antioch is described as a community of believers who are worshiping Yahuah and fasting. During this time, the Holy Spirit instructs them to set apart Barnabas and Paul for the work that they are called to do. Following this divine guidance, the church members pray, lay hands on them, and send them off on their mission. This passage highlights the importance of prayer, fasting, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer, coupled with fasting, as an effective way to pray is evident throughout both Old and New Testament writings. In Acts 14:23, Paul and Barnabas employed prayer and fasting in appointing elders for the church.
Exodus 34:28 mentions that Moses neither ate bread nor drank water while he was on Mt Sinai for an additional 40 days1 receiving the covenant. The Prophet Ezra declared a fast for himself and the people as they prayed for a safe journey back to Jerusalem from Babylon. (Ezra 8:21-23)
After hearing of the condition of Jerusalem, Nehemiah mourns and fasts, then prays for the repentance of Israel’s sins and for restoration of the scattered nation. (Nehemiah 1)
In addition to humbling through fasting and prayer, here other important prerequisites for effective prayer that are important to study and consider:
Repentance of Sins (2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 66:18)
Faith and Trust in Yah (Hebrews 11:6, James 1:6, Proverbs 3:5-6)
Obedience to Yahuah’s Torah (Deuteronomy 28:1-2 and 1 John 3:22 “And we receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him.”)
Forgiveness (Mark 11:25 “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”)
Persistence and Perseverance (Luke 18:1) “Pray and never give up”; and (1 Thessalonians 5:17) “Pray continually.”
Righteousness (James 5:1) “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Eliminating Distractions (James 5:16) “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
The Importance of Purification and Cleanliness
Throughout the scriptures, we are encouraged to maintain a state of cleanliness and purity, reflecting the nature of the Most High and His Son. The following verses highlight the profound connection between spiritual purity and the effectiveness of our prayers.
Psalm 24:3-4: “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.”
Isaiah 1:15-16: “When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood! Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong.”
James 4:8 – “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” Did you know that scripture indicates that if we do not keep Yahuah’s commandments our prayers are an abomination to him?
Proverbs 28:9 – “He who turns away his ear from hearing the Torah, Even his prayer is an abomination.”
Here are a few other supporting verses:
Psalm 66: 18 – “If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear me.”
Proverbs 15:8 – The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: But the prayers of the upright is his delight.”
Zechariah 7:11-13 – “But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they closed their ears so they could not hear. They made their hearts like a rock so as not to obey the law or the words that the Lord of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets. Therefore great anger came from theLord of Hosts. Just as He had called, and they would not listen, so when they called, I would not listen,” says the Lord of Hosts.”
Isaiah 1:15 – “When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of Blood!”
Isaiah 59:2 – “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins havehidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
Micah 3:4 – “Then they will cry out to the Lord, but he will not answer them. At thattime he will hide his face from them because of the evil they have done.”
John 9:31 – “We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godlyperson who does his will.”
1 Peter 3:12 – “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
So believers can now see, effective prayer involves:
1. Repentance of Sins and the Acceptance of the Gospel of Yahusha Messiah’s death, burial, resurrection, His esteem title as the Son of Yahuah, His esteem and honor as the High Melchizedek priest in heaven sitting at the right hand of the father interceding on our behalf.
2. Faith and Trust in Yahuah and His son Yahusha
3. Cleanliness (Ensuring One Isn’t Unclean or Defiled)
4. Obedience to God’s Commands
5. Forgiveness of others who have sinned against us
6. Striving to live a Righteous life: Remember don’t ever let anyone tell you can’t be righteous, because to say we can’t achieve a righteous walk would be declaring Yahuah a liar. And we know that Yahuah does not lie and that he is not asking his children to do something impossible.
7. Fasting in Humility
8. Eliminating Distractions and focusing on Yahuah when we pray, as we persist and persevere through our prayer life. “Pray Continually” — (a) Praying aloud, not just in our minds (b) Praying through song as David did may be another effective method.
The Impact of Effective Prayer on Our Lives
Effective prayer is important to believers because it ensures that our prayers and petitions to Yahuah are aligned with His will. We all should all strive for our prayers to be sincere and meaningful, rather than selfish, prideful, misguided, angry, vengeful, or disconnected from Yah’s plan. It is essential to remember that Yah has given us the beautiful gift of choice, often referred to as free will. By focusing on effective prayer, we can deepen our relationship with Him and seek to fulfill His purposes in our lives. Amein!
“But if it doesn’t please you to worship Yahuah, choose for yourselves today the one you will worship: the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my family (my house), we will worship Yahweh.”
Joshua 24:15
So, we do indeed have a choice.
Keeping the freedom to make choices in mind, it’s clear that we pray because we desire something; we seek a solution or relief from our problems. Mature believers recognize the importance of praying in alignment with the Father’s will and in a righteous manner. This means we should avoid asking for material possessions out of selfishness. For example, it’s perfectly reasonable for a family to pray for a larger home if their current living space is no longer adequate due to growth. However, this request differs significantly from seeking a bigger house out of vanity or covetousness.
Keeping the freedom to make choices in mind, it’s clear that we pray because we desire something; we seek a solution or relief from our problems. Mature believers recognize the importance of praying in alignment with the Father’s will and in a righteous manner. This means we should avoid asking for material possessions out of selfishness. For example, it’s perfectly reasonable for a family to pray for a larger home if their current living space is no longer adequate due to growth. However, this request differs significantly from seeking a bigger house out of vanity or covetousness.
Yahuah knows our hearts and our needs, Amein!
Recall the petitions that Avraham made on behalf of the city of Sodom, as he bargained with Yahuah regarding the destruction of that wicked city. He pleaded that if Yah could find just ten righteous people, He would spare it. Avraham could have chosen to remain silent, but instead, he voiced his concerns, and Yahuah heard his petitions, considered them, and agreed to the terms. It was not counted against Avraham as sin for asking.
Ultimately, however, ten righteous people were not found, and the city was still destroyed. Yet, Avraham’s heart of compassion drove him to intercede, and Yahuah listened and responded to his pleas. Likewise, Moses wrestled with Yah and interceded on behalf of the children of Israel as we read earlier in Exodus 32:11-14. Hallelujah!
Another more important reason we should desire to have an effective prayer life, is simply to foster a deeper relationship with our heavenly Father.
When we wholeheartedly dedicate ourselves to Yahuah and His Son, Yahusha, and discipline ourselves to follow Yahuah’s Torah—His Laws, Commands, and Instructions—without hesitation, we commit to serving Him with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. In doing so, we will see positive results: our prayers will be heard and be effective in our lives and in the lives of the people we pray for. Our prayers will be more effective in opposing evil spirits, powers, and principalities that we pray against, as well as in seeking protection and deliverance from them. Halleluyah!
A note of caution: please don’t mistake the intent of this study or misinterpret scripture. I’m not implying that every request we make in prayer will be granted, nor am I promoting any false prosperity gospel ideas. Even Paul prayed for healing from his ailment, but he accepted that the answer was no, demonstrating maturity and faith in accepting Yahuah’s decisions.
I am not implying that we won’t face persecution, stress, danger, or even death. Stephen, the first martyr, lived righteously and had what I would consider an effective prayer life, yet he still died for his faith. However, look at what his death inspired. Look at the example he set by giving forgiveness toward those who murdered him. Stephen is notably remembered for his ultimate sacrifice for the faith. His actions emboldened Christians to standfast in the face of persecutions and for centuries has inspired believers to fear no men and to stand for truth no matter what.
Remember, always pray that Yahuah’s will be done in all things. As I mentioned earlier, sometimes prayers are answered in many miraculous ways.
Examples of Effective Prayer
Let’s be honest, answered prayer in today’s world seldom makes it onto the evening news. They are likely never reported or are buried on purpose because the enemy – Ha’Satan – wants believers to remain uninformed, weak, and ineffective in their spiritual and prayer life. The evil one does not want us praying for healing of one another, he does not want us casting out demons, and he does not want us to raise the dead. But these prayers are answered today. Here are a few instances I have found of prayers being answered in amazing ways:
Miraculous Provision
George Müller was a Christian evangelist and the director of the Ashley Down orphanage in Bristol, England. He is known for his unwavering faith and reliance on prayer. Müller never asked for financial support, but instead, he prayed for God to provide for the needs of the orphanage. One famous story recounts how, one morning, there was no food for the children. Müller prayed, and shortly after, a baker knocked on the door with enough bread to feed everyone. Then, a milkman whose cart had broken down nearby offered the milk to the orphanage, ensuring the children had a complete meal.
Miraculous Resurrection
In 2001, Nigerian pastor Daniel Ekechukwu was declared dead after a car accident. His body was taken to a mortuary, where it remained for two days. His wife, believing in the power of prayer, insisted on taking his body to a church where Reinhard Bonnke was preaching. After intense prayer, Daniel reportedly came back to life, astonishing doctors and witnesses.
Miraculous Recovery
In 2015, John Smith, a teenager from Missouri, fell through ice and was underwater for 15 minutes. He was declared dead for over an hour. His mother, Joyce, prayed fervently at his bedside, and miraculously, his heart started beating again. Despite the grim prognosis, John made a full recovery, which doctors could not explain.
Miraculous Healing
Barbara Snyder was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was in the final stages of the disease. She was bedridden and had lost the ability to breathe on her own. After receiving prayer from her church community, she experienced a sudden and complete healing. She was able to walk and breathe without assistance, leaving her doctors baffled.
Reverend Thomas Kendall & Maori Chiefs, oil painting by James Barry 1820
Miracles Witnessed by Early Catholic Missionaries in Africa
In the early 20th century, Catholic missionaries in Africa often reported miraculous events among the local tribes. One notable account involves missionaries who shared the Gospel with a tribe, teaching them about Jesus’ miracles. When the missionaries returned months later, they found the tribe practicing what they had learned—casting out demons, healing the sick, and even raising the dead. However, the missionaries, unfamiliar with such manifestations, discouraged these practices, fearing they were forms of local magic.
John G. Lake, a missionary to South Africa in the early 1900s, documented numerous miracles, including healings and resurrections. Lake’s ministry was marked by extraordinary events, such as the healing of the sick and casting out of demons, which resonated deeply with the local African communities.
As we can see, Yahuah still answers prayers. These prayers were certainly effective because they involved, steadfast faith, belief in the power of Yahuah, and were coupled with a righteous walk.
Preacher Charles Spurgeon had this to say about the nature of prayer:
“True prayer is neither a mere mental exercise nor a vocal performance. It is far deeper than that – it is a spiritual transaction with the Creator of Heaven and Earth.”
“Prayer should not be regarded as a duty which must be performed, but rather as a privilege to be enjoyed, a rare delight that is always revealing some new beauty.”
Brothers and sisters, seek guidance and effective prayer examples from the Scriptures. We are to be mimickers of Yahusha. We know Yahusha mimics the Father in heaven and does all things according to His will. Yahusha followed the examples set in the Torah and the Prophets, and we should do the same in our prayer life and approach to prayer.
We should equip ourselves for effective prayers in various circumstances, as highlighted in several passages above. This is especially important concerning spiritual warfare and other significant matters. We should all routinely engage in prayer, fasting, maintaining cleanliness, purification, and humility. We can metaphorically wear sackcloth and ashes by publicly and visibly demonstrating deep remorse, humility, and a sense of mourning and deep anguish in our prayers to our Heavenly Father. Many of us understand this connection to the Day of Atonement, and we see above it applies in a multitude of dire situations.
Hopefully you can see why striving for an effective prayer life is important to us, the lives of those around us, and to our connection to Yahusha and our heavenly Father Yahuah.
The main thing I hope and pray is that we all keep working and striving for an effective prayer life, to be the light to the world that Yahuah has called us to be as his children. If we pray and it seems like our prayers aren’t being heard or answered, may we never give up, may we keep striving to prays as the prophets prayed, as Yahusha prayed, and keep turning back to the Scriptures for guidance in achieving this goal of effective prayers.
Never give up, keep trying, and remain persistent. The Scriptures tell us to pray without ceasing. All day, every day, all the time! Halleluyah, and Amein!
Lastly, recall at the beginning of this study I ask you to write down in your study notes a list of your current prayers, and specifically how you are saying the prayer to Yah. Now, having considered the topics covered in this study, revisit those prayers and determine how you might reword the prayers to be more effective. But most importantly, consider what preparations you should do first before presenting your petition to the Father more effectively.
Prayers are answered today, all the time, all around the world, and we must keep trying, keep praying, keep petitioning Yahuah, in fear, respect, faith, and in patience – never doubting. We must always pray in accordance with His will. May Yahuah’s will be done in all things even when we don’t understand.
Thank you for honoring me by reading through this study. I hope it has blessed you and that it helps in your pursuit of achieving a more effective prayer life. All glory and honor be to the Most-High Yahuah!
“Hear, O Yisra’ĕl: יהוה our Elohim, יהוה is one! “And you shalllove יהוה your Elohim with all your heart, and with all your being, and with all your might.”
Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Shalom.
Footnotes
1 In Exodus 24:18, it states that Moses was on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights when he received the tablets of the law. Adding these two periods together gives a total of 80 days of fasting: 40 days from Exodus 24:18 and 40 days from Exodus 34:28.
Prayer is a familiar practice for many of us, often woven into the fabric of our daily lives. For some, it’s a ritual performed multiple times throughout the day. But what motivates us to pray?
I understand why I pray. I seek constant forgiveness and guidance to navigate life’s challenges and difficulties. I pray for the protection of those I love, as well as those I may not. I communicate with Yahuah to express my love and respect for Him, and to show my gratitude for sending His son, Yahusha, who laid down His life for my sins and rose again triumphantly as the Messiah and high Melchizedek priest, interceding for me at the right hand of the Father.
I offer my thanks, fully aware that I do not deserve even a fraction of His grace and forgiveness. Yet, His word assures me that He loves and cares for me. Who am I to receive such kindness?
I pray in gratitude for the food and provisions in my life. (Philippians 4:19) I seek discernment and wisdom as I study Scripture. I also pray for the courage to speak before a crowd of believers, many of whom possess far greater knowledge than I do. Most importantly, I ask for the Ruach HaKodesh to speak through me, delivering Yahuah’s message rather than my own.
The Prophet Isaiah eloquently captures Yahuah’s faithfulness to all who are considered ‘the remnant of Israel’—those who place their prayerful trust in Him:
I will be the same until your old age, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will bear and save you.
Isaiah 46:4
Examples of Effective Prayer
Of course we know that in Matthew 6:9-13 Yahusha taught us to pray – commonly referred to as the Lord’s Prayer. However, this is not the only approach we should take in prayer. In verse five of Matthew 6, Yahusha admonished us to be authentic.
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathens do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Matthew 6:5-8
So it is okay to pray in other ways and for specific purposes. Other notable prayers you may recall from the Bible are:
Yahusha’s prayer prior to his crucifixion:
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
Matthew 26:39
Hannah’s prayer for a child:
In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, ‘Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”
1 Samuel 1:10-11
Solomon’s prayer for wisdom:
Now, Yahuah my Elohim, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?”
1 Kings 3:7-9
David’s prayer of personal repentence:
“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.”
Psalm 51:1-2
Daniel’s prays for the repentance of Yah’s people:
“I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed: ‘Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws.”
Daniel 9:4-5
Before we dive into our study on effective prayer, take a few minutes of your time to make a list of current prayer requests. Note specifically your approach to the Father. Put this aside for now, as we will revisit this later in Part 2 of this article.
Effective Prayer Requires Preparation
It is essential to examine certain specific preparations mentioned in scripture and explore how they relate to effective prayer.
Synopsis: Jesus encounters a large crowd and finds His disciples arguing with some scribes. A man approaches Him, explaining that his son is possessed by a spirit that causes severe physical convulsions and has made him unable to speak. The man had asked Jesus’ disciples to cast out the spirit, but they were unsuccessful. Jesus expresses frustration at the lack of faith among the people and asks for the boy to be brought to Him. When the boy is presented, he convulses violently. The father shares that this has been happening since childhood and pleads for help, expressing doubt in his belief. Jesus reassures him that all things are possible for those who believe. The father cries out for help with his unbelief. Jesus then commands the unclean spirit to leave the boy, and despite the boy appearing dead after the spirit’s departure, Jesus lifts him up, restoring him to life. After He went into a house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out? ” And He told them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting .”
Key: The disciples were unable to drive out the unclean spirit because they had not spent time praying and fasting prior to the encounter.
Another one of my favorites is Elihjah’s prayer on Mount Carmel in 1 Kings 18:20-38:
Synopsis: The prophet Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel to demonstrate the power of the true God. He challenges them to a contest: each side will prepare a bull for sacrifice and call upon their deity to send down fire to consume it. The prophets of Baal go first, calling out and performing rituals all day without any response from Baal. Elijah then prepares his altar, drenches it with water, and prays to the Lord. God answers Elijah’s prayer by sending fire from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench around the altar. This event leads the people to proclaim that the Lord is the true God.
Keys: There are several key components tied to effective prayer in action here. In verse 24 the prophet drew a line between the One True Elohim – YHWH– and the false gods and priests of Baal. This is a very important distinction that will impact our prayer lives. In verses 30-33 Elijah called the people near as he took the time to repair the altar of worship that had been neglected. This neglect served as a metaphor for the deterioration of the people’s faith. In repairing the altar, Elijah was obeying the requirements of the Law (Leviticus 1:9) which were binding on Israel. Yahuah’s commands are also binding on us. Lastly, in verses 36-37 Elijah reminded the people of their heritage by invoking the names of the Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Israel) who in times past were also witnesses to YHWH’s miraculous power (often by fire) on their behalf. He was able to perform this amazing thing on Mt. Carmel because he acted according to Yah’s word.
Here are a few other examples of effective prayer from scripture to examine for this study:
Yahusha’s prayer for Lazarus to be raised from the dead in John 11:41-44
Peter’s rescue from prison in Acts 12:5-17 (Here it doesn’t quote the prayer but in verse 5 it reads “So Kĕpha was indeed kept in prison, but prayer was earnestly made to Elohim on his behalf by the assembly.”)
Paul and Silas’ rescue from prison in Acts 16:25-26 (Again, here it doesn’t quote the prayer but in verse 25 it reads “And at midnight Sha’ul and Silas were praying and singing songs to Elohim, and the prisoners were listening to them.” )
While there are numerous examples to explore in this study, I think these examples are particularly relevant and worth considering.
Understanding Effective Prayer: What It Looks Like and How It Works
Growing up in Oklahoma with a mother who had unwavering faith in the power of prayer, I learned early on that when severe weather approaches, we pray against the storm, rebuking it and commanding it to be calm and still, just as Yahusha did. I am grateful to have witnessed storm after storm dissipate as it neared our home, all thanks to our prayers. Praise Yahuah!
Let’s consider what effective prayer really looks like in our lives. You may be familiar with the examples listed below. However, when reading through them this time around, pay particular attention to small details and hints presented in the text, which point us toward achieving effective prayer.
What are some passages that discuss prayer in a higher level of detail? We will begin with James 5:13-19, which focuses on prayers that target specific needs.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
James 5:13-16
At the end of this section of scripture, James uses Elijah as an example of what effectual prayer can accomplish.
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.
James 5:17-18
The Method of Effective Prayer
Now we will focus on the ‘method’ presented in 2 Chronicles 7:14 which leads to achieving the desired result in one’s prayer life.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Realize you are ‘His people called by His name → Humble yourself → Seek His face (meaning seek his torah/ways in earnest) → Turn away from wicked ways (meaning truly repenting from sins and sinning no more = Yahuah hearing you (your prayers) from heaven = Forgiveness of one’s sins and healing of the land.
Self Realization of Identity + Work + Faith + Learning + Difficult lifestyle changing work = Yah actually hearing prayer = Forgiveness and Healing.
I won’t break down the subsequent examples listed below in this way, but hopefully this gives a visual of how to identify key points, key words, and methodologies of achieving more effective prayer, in your personal studies.
• 1 Kings 8:22-53 – Solomon’s Prayer of Dedication: Here we see King Solomon’s extensive prayer at the dedication of the temple, highlighting the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and Yah’s faithfulness.
• Daniel 9:1-19 – Daniel’s Prayer for His People: Daniel’s pours out his heart in confession, repentance, and supplication for the people of Israel, humbly seeking and seeking God’s mercy.
• Mark 11:24 – Highlights the importance of faith in Yahuah, believing that He is able to accomplish things that appear impossible with infinite ease.
• Philippians 4:6-7 – Emphasizes that there is to be such confidence in Yah as to free our mind from anxiety, and such a sense of dependence on Him as to keep it calm.Everything is in reference to the supply of our wants and our spiritual condition.Supplication is a mode of prayer which arises from that sense of need or want. Thanksgiving is the heart condition necessary as we make our requests known.
• 1 John 5:14-15 – The confidence referred to here is that which relates to the answer to prayer. The sense is that one of the effects of believing on Messiah is that we have the assurance that our prayers will be answered. We must remember also that Yah has not promised to grant anything that is contrary to His will. The expression ‘according to His will’ is a) in accordance with what He has declared He is willing to grant and b) limits the answer to prayer to what He sees to be best for us and our situation.
• John 17 – Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer: This entire chapter is a beautiful prayer by Yahusha, where he prays for Himself, His disciples, and all believers.
•• In Ephesians 1:15-19 , Paul highlights a heart full of thanksgiving, asks for wisdom and revelation of knowledge and that the Ephesians would have enlightened minds to know the ‘hope of His calling’ for their lives.
Daniel in the Lion’s Den
One prayer many are familiar with is from Daniel 9:1-20. Often referred to as a prayer for his people, Daniel’s Prayer is a shining example of how confession and humility can be the catalysts for powerful prayer. Here is the preamble, and the prayer in its entirety, for you to review and analyze in your devotional time:
In the first year of Darius, the son of Ahasuerus, a Mede by birth, who was ruler over the kingdom of the Chaldeans: In the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the books according to the word of the Lord to Jeremiah the prophet that the number of years for the desolation of Jerusalem would be 70. So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petitions, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes, prayed to the Lord my God and confessed:
Lord, righteousness belongs to You, but this day public shame belongs to us: the men of Judah, the residents of Jerusalem, and all Israel — those who are near and those who are far, in all the countries where You have dispersed them because of the disloyalty they have shown toward You. 8Lord, public shame belongs to us, our kings, our leaders, and our fathers, because we have sinned against You.
Compassion and forgiveness belong to the Lord our God, though we have rebelled against Him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by following His instructions that He set before us through His servants the prophets. All Israel has broken Your law and turned away, refusing to obey You. The promised curse written in the law of Moses, the servant of God, has been poured out on us because we have sinned against Him. He has carried out His words that He spoke against us and against our rulers by bringing on us so great a disaster that nothing like what has been done to Jerusalem has ever been done under all of heaven.
Just as it is written in the law of Moses, all this disaster has come on us, yet we have not appeased the Lord our God by turning from our iniquities and paying attention to Your truth. So the Lord kept the disaster in mind and brought it on us, for the Lord our God is righteous in all He has done. But we have not obeyed Him.
Now, Lord our God, who brought Your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand and made Your name renowned as it is this day, we have sinned, we have acted wickedly. Lord, in keeping with all Your righteous acts, may Your anger and wrath turn away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; for because of our sins and the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Your people have become an object of ridicule to all those around us.
Therefore, our God, hear the prayer and the petitions of Your servant. Show Your favor to Your desolate sanctuary for the Lord’s sake. Listen, my God, and hear. Open Your eyes and see our desolations and the city called by Your name. For we are not presenting our petitions before You based on our righteous acts, but based on Your abundant compassion. Lord, hear! Lord, forgive! Lord, listen and act! My God, for Your own sake, do not delay, because Your city and Your people are called by Your name.
In Part II of “Effective Prayer: A Torah Perspective”, we will explore how prayer preparation results in an impactful and meaningful life and why it is important.
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