“Now, O Lord God, deliver us so that all the kingdoms on earth may know that You alone, O Lord, are God.” II Kings 19:19
This is the prayer of Hezekiah, king of Judah, asking for deliverance against the Assyrian army. Notice that Hezekiah is not simply asking for victory in the battle to come, but rather that through the victory, the kingdoms of the earth will know that the Lord is God. The prayer is that in such knowledge of the One True God others may put their faith in Him and turn away from idolatry.
In our prayers for defense against sin, we might also consider how God’s answer to prayer can be a testimony to unbelievers that our God is real. Proclaiming to others God’s answer to our prayers can be a wonderful testimony and witness to the faith. We should be ready to tell others about how God has met our needs and answered our prayers as an encouragement for them to call upon Him in faith as well. Have you been healed from an illness for which you prayed? Have you received a new job because you petitioned God for it? Has the Lord specially gifted you because of a prayer request you brought before Him? Most likely yes! Well, let others know about it, especially unbelievers, and thereby encourage them to pray as well.
Hezekiah not only prayed for Himself but for His nation as well. Such intercessory prayer can be a wonderful comfort even and especially to those who do not yet know the Lord. Tell them that you are praying for them or for a special need that you know that they have. God will answer as He wills, but what an encouragement to others to know that you are praying for them and feel for their needs. God’s deliverance can be a great testimony to others that God is real and true and loving. As you know this reality, so share it with others through the act of prayer.
Know that you are loved!
Peace and Joy,
Pastor Kilian