A Prayer to Trust in Christ’s Victory Over Evil - Your Daily Prayer - October 27

Audio By Carbonatix

A Prayer to Trust in Christ’s Victory Over Evil 
By Sophia Bricker

Bible Reading:
“Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.” - Hebrews 2:14-15, NIV

Listen or Read Below:

Ever wished you could unsee or unhear something? I once encountered a woman who expressed her regret over watching a psychological thriller film and described the way the images continued to haunt her. Try as she did to forget, the terror of the scenes would creep back into her mind, creating a cycle of anxiety and fear. She expressed how much she wanted to unsee the movie and erase it from her mind. Was there a way to free her from the haunting images? 

Most of us have, at some point in time, been exposed to similar imagery or other sensory experiences, such as while engaging with movies, television, or music. Even if we are only watching a latest release on our television at home, and not in a dark theater, the experience is meant to be immersive. We know that the story we are witnessing was created by filmmakers, but somehow the scenes affect us. Specific instances from the film stay imprinted in our minds and may reappear during a moment of fear at night or randomly as we go through our day.  

Some individuals may laugh at such an experience, wondering why someone would be so impacted by a mere movie or show. Yet, the fear they experience is real, like in the case of the woman I mentioned who continued to experience anxiety months afterward. Scripture never downplays the reality of the spiritual realm or of the evil that exists in the world. There are many valid reasons to be afraid of the dark–of the crimes that happen under the cover of shadow and of the spiritual attacks that can affect us. And depending on where a person lives in the world and the circumstances they find themselves in, the oppression of darkness will feel heavier.   

As much as the Bible is honest about the existence of sin and spiritual forces at work in the world, it also does not leave us without hope. Scripture tells us the shadow-shattering story of God the Son entering the world by becoming a man. The author of Hebrews reminds us that it was not for angels that Christ came to save, but humans, those made of flesh and blood who constantly have the fate of death hovering over their lives. Jesus entered our world and submitted Himself to death to defeat the power of sin and Satan.  

In Colossians 2:15, we read: “And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” The devil thought he had won when he worked through Judas Iscariot to betray the Son of Man, and when Jesus hung in agony on the cross. Yet it was there that Christ demonstrated His victory–the earth shook, the graves gave up their dead, the temple curtain was torn in two, and Jesus declared “it is finished” (John 19:30). Through the cross and, three days later, the empty tomb, Christ proved that death and darkness no longer have power. And one day, they will be completely defeated at Jesus’ return when He resurrects all who trust in Him.  

So, when I answered the woman’s question about how she could be freed from the frightening images that plagued her, I discussed the benefits of therapy and taking steps to reduce anxiety. However, what I emphasized was Jesus’ power over darkness, and how meditating on His love and sacrifice can free us from fear. Nothing on earth, or in the spiritual realm, can separate us from the love of our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).  

We might not be able to unsee images or erase the memory of a disturbing experience from our thoughts, but we can experience the peace of Christ, who guards our hearts and minds in times of distress (Philippians 4:6-7). In Him, we can find light amid the world’s darkness.   

Let’s Pray: 

Jesus,

You are the Light of the World, who has not and cannot be overcome by darkness. All the evil in the world that compels us to fear and lose heart has been defeated by You on the cross, where You gave Your life in exchange for all who trust in You. Though evil is still present in this fallen world that awaits renewal, even now, You are Victor and Ruler. Sin and death no longer hold us as slaves–we have been set free. May You speak light into our lives whenever the darkness becomes overwhelming or frightening images and memories plague our minds. For You are Lord and Savior, and we trust in Your death and resurrection. Nothing, not even the shadow of death, can separate us from Your love.

Amen.

Share your reflections on today’s devotional in the Your Daily Prayer discussion on the Crosswalk Forum!

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/francescoch 

Sophia Bricker is a writer. Her mission is to help others grow in their relationship with Jesus through thoughtful articles, devotionals, and stories. She completed a BA and MA in Christian ministry which included extensive study of the Bible and theology, as well as an MFA in creative writing. You can read her thoughts about literature and faith at The Cross, a Pen, and a Page Substack, or visit the discipleship-based site Cultivate, where she writes with her sister.  

Listen to Greg Laurie's New Show!

Everyone talks about life after death, but what about life during life? Do you wonder, 'Why am I here? How can I be truly happy? Does my life matter, or why do I feel empty inside?' And, 'What really happens when I die?' Pastor Greg Laurie has helped millions find profound hope through true faith. On "The Greg Laurie Show," he transparently shares his own journey from hopelessness, addiction, and abuse to a spiritual revolution that transformed everything. Drawing on decades of impactful ministry, Greg tackles life's deepest questions, offering timeless biblical wisdom, practical guidance, and a compelling vision for a life radically transformed by Christ. Join Pastor Greg as he navigates today's cultural challenges, unpacks spiritual truths, and empowers listeners to discover lasting joy and meaning in a relationship with God.

Now that you've prayed, are you in need of someone to pray for YOU? Click the button below