Key Takeaways
1. Prayer is a powerful tool for ruling the world as God's Kingdom of priests
"To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen."
God's chosen rulers. As believers in Christ, we are called to be a Kingdom of priests, tasked with the responsibility of ruling the world through prayer. This divine appointment places us in a unique position of influence, where our prayers can shape the course of history and impact nations.
Power of intercession. Our role as priests involves interceding on behalf of others, standing in the gap between God and humanity. Through prayer, we can bring about change in seemingly impossible situations, influence governments, and shift spiritual atmospheres.
Examples of prayer changing history:
- Abraham interceding for Sodom
- Moses praying for Israel
- Esther fasting and praying for her people
- Early Church praying for Peter's release from prison
2. Meeting basic conditions unlocks the potential of answered prayer
"Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
Foundational requirements. To experience the full power of prayer, certain conditions must be met. These are not arbitrary rules but essential principles that align our hearts with God's purposes and enable us to pray effectively.
Key conditions for answered prayer:
- Reverent submission to God's will
- Faith in God's existence and goodness
- Praying in Jesus' name
- Approaching God with confidence
- Having the right motives
- Forgiving others
- Being led by the Holy Spirit
- Praying according to God's Word
By fulfilling these conditions, we position ourselves to receive answers to our prayers and participate in God's divine plan for the world.
3. Different types of prayer form a symphony of spiritual communication
"Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests."
Diverse prayer instruments. Prayer is not a one-dimensional activity but a rich symphony of various forms of communication with God. Each type of prayer serves a unique purpose and can be likened to different instruments in an orchestra.
Types of prayer:
- Praise and thanksgiving
- Worship
- Petition
- Intercession
- Supplication
- Command
- Commitment
- Dedication
- Persistence
- Blessing
- Cursing
By utilizing these different prayer types, we engage in a comprehensive dialogue with God, addressing various aspects of our spiritual lives and the needs of others. This diverse approach to prayer allows us to participate fully in God's work on earth.
4. Aligning with God's will is crucial for effective prayer
"This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him."
Discovering divine purposes. Effective prayer is not about imposing our will on God but aligning ourselves with His purposes. By seeking to understand God's will through His Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can pray prayers that are in harmony with His plan.
Steps to align with God's will:
- Study the Scriptures to know God's character and promises
- Listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance
- Surrender personal agendas
- Seek God's Kingdom and righteousness first
- Pray with an attitude of "Your will be done"
When we pray according to God's will, we can have confidence that our prayers will be answered, and we become active participants in bringing about His purposes on earth.
5. Spiritual warfare requires using God's provided weapons
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds."
Engaging in unseen battles. As believers, we are involved in a spiritual conflict that requires spiritual weapons. Understanding the nature of this warfare and utilizing the tools God has provided is essential for victory in prayer and life.
God's spiritual weapons:
- The Word of God
- The name of Jesus
- The blood of Jesus
Deploying weapons through:
- Prayer
- Praise
- Preaching
- Testimony
By recognizing the reality of spiritual warfare and actively using these divine weapons, we can effectively combat the forces of darkness and advance God's Kingdom on earth.
6. The blood of Jesus is the ultimate weapon in spiritual battles
"They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."
Power in the blood. The blood of Jesus is not just a theological concept but a potent spiritual weapon. It provides redemption, forgiveness, cleansing, justification, and sanctification, making it a formidable force against the enemy's accusations and attacks.
Applying the blood:
- Understand what the Bible says about the blood's power
- Testify personally to these truths
- Use your testimony as a weapon against Satan's attacks
Key benefits of the blood:
- Redemption from Satan's power
- Forgiveness of sins
- Continual cleansing
- Justification before God
- Sanctification and separation to God
By consistently applying the blood of Jesus through our testimony, we activate its power in our lives and overcome spiritual opposition.
7. Fasting enhances prayer and aligns us with God's purposes
"Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?"
Spiritual discipline. Fasting is a powerful spiritual practice that, when combined with prayer, can lead to breakthrough and alignment with God's purposes. It is not merely abstaining from food but a deliberate act of self-denial and seeking God.
Benefits of fasting:
- Demonstrates humility before God
- Intensifies focus on spiritual matters
- Breaks spiritual strongholds
- Increases spiritual sensitivity
- Facilitates divine intervention
Historical examples like Esther, Nehemiah, and Daniel show how fasting played a crucial role in national deliverance and spiritual breakthrough. By incorporating fasting into our prayer life, we can experience a deeper level of spiritual effectiveness and alignment with God's will.
8. The Church's destiny is to manifest God's glory and fullness
"That He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish."
Divine vision for the Church. God's ultimate purpose for the Church is to make her a glorious representation of His presence and character on earth. This vision goes beyond individual spirituality to encompass the collective Body of Christ manifesting God's fullness.
Seven marks of the glorious Church:
- Filled with God's manifest presence
- Holy
- Without blemish
- United in faith
- Acknowledging Christ's lordship
- Mature
- Manifesting the fullness of Christ
As we pray and work towards this vision, we participate in God's plan to prepare the Church as a Bride for Christ's return. This collective transformation and manifestation of God's glory is the ultimate goal of our prayers and spiritual growth.
Last updated:
FAQ
What's "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior" by Derek Prince about?
- Focus on Prayer: The book is a comprehensive guide on how to become an effective prayer warrior, emphasizing the power and importance of prayer in a Christian's life.
- Spiritual Warfare: It explores the concept of spiritual warfare, teaching readers how to use prayer as a weapon against spiritual forces.
- Practical Guidance: Derek Prince provides practical advice and biblical principles to help believers align their prayers with God's will.
- Personal Testimonies: The book includes personal stories and testimonies from Derek Prince's life, illustrating the impact of prayer.
Why should I read "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior"?
- Deepen Your Prayer Life: The book offers insights and techniques to enhance and deepen your prayer life, making it more effective.
- Understand Spiritual Warfare: It provides a clear understanding of spiritual warfare and how prayer plays a crucial role in it.
- Biblical Foundation: Derek Prince uses scripture to back up his teachings, ensuring that readers are grounded in biblical truth.
- Practical Application: The book is filled with practical steps and examples that readers can apply to their own lives.
What are the key takeaways of "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior"?
- Prayer as a Weapon: Prayer is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare, and believers are called to use it effectively.
- Alignment with God's Will: Effective prayer requires aligning oneself with God's will and purposes.
- Conditions for Answered Prayer: There are specific conditions and attitudes necessary for prayers to be answered, such as faith, forgiveness, and persistence.
- Role of Fasting: Fasting is an important aspect of prayer that can enhance its effectiveness and bring about spiritual breakthroughs.
How does Derek Prince define a "prayer warrior"?
- Not Cavalier: A prayer warrior is not someone who takes prayer lightly or uses it carelessly.
- Alignment with God: A true prayer warrior aligns their prayers with God's will and purposes.
- Persistent and Faithful: They are persistent in prayer, believing in God's promises and waiting for His timing.
- Spiritual Authority: A prayer warrior understands their spiritual authority and uses it to intercede for others and combat spiritual forces.
What are the basic conditions for answered prayer according to Derek Prince?
- Reverent Submission: Approach God with a heart of submission, willing to accept His will over your own.
- Faith: Believe that God exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
- Forgiveness: Forgive others to ensure that your prayers are not hindered by unforgiveness.
- Persistence: Continue in prayer, even when answers are delayed, trusting in God's timing.
How does Derek Prince suggest discovering God's will for prayer?
- Scripture as a Guide: Use the Bible as the primary source for understanding God's will.
- Holy Spirit's Leading: Be led by the Holy Spirit in prayer, allowing Him to guide your requests.
- Align with God's Kingdom: Pray for God's Kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
- Personal Dedication: Dedicate yourself to God, presenting your body as a living sacrifice to align with His purposes.
What role does fasting play in prayer according to "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior"?
- Enhances Prayer: Fasting is a spiritual discipline that enhances the power and effectiveness of prayer.
- Self-Denial: It involves denying oneself to focus more intently on seeking God and His will.
- Biblical Examples: The book provides examples from scripture where fasting led to significant spiritual breakthroughs.
- Response to God's Promises: Fasting is a way to respond to God's promises, showing earnestness and dedication in seeking their fulfillment.
What are the spiritual weapons mentioned in "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior"?
- Word of God: The Bible is a powerful weapon, used as the sword of the Spirit in spiritual warfare.
- Name of Jesus: The name of Jesus carries authority and power, used to command and overcome spiritual forces.
- Blood of Jesus: The blood of Jesus is a protective and cleansing force, applied through testimony and faith.
- Prayer and Praise: These are essential tools for engaging in spiritual warfare and bringing down strongholds.
How does Derek Prince explain the concept of spiritual warfare?
- Heavenly Conflict: Spiritual warfare involves a conflict in the heavenly realms between God's angels and Satan's forces.
- Role of Believers: Believers play a crucial role in this warfare through their prayers and spiritual authority.
- Victory through Prayer: Victory is achieved by praying through opposition and standing firm in faith.
- Biblical Examples: The book uses examples from scripture, such as Daniel's prayers, to illustrate spiritual warfare.
What are the best quotes from "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior" and what do they mean?
- "I get what I pray for." This quote emphasizes the confidence and faith Derek Prince has in the power of prayer when aligned with God's will.
- "Prayer is not a way for us to get God to do what we want." It highlights the importance of aligning our desires with God's purposes rather than using prayer for selfish ends.
- "The decisive factor in this great war with Satan is just one thing: praying believers." This underscores the critical role that believers play in spiritual warfare through their prayers.
- "Through the blood of Jesus, I am redeemed out of the hand of the devil." This statement reflects the power of the blood of Jesus in delivering believers from spiritual bondage.
How does Derek Prince suggest using the blood of Jesus in prayer?
- Testimony: Testify personally to what the Word of God says the blood of Jesus does for you.
- Protection and Cleansing: Use the blood as a means of protection and cleansing from sin and spiritual attacks.
- Overcoming Satan: The blood of Jesus is a key weapon in overcoming Satan and his accusations.
- Scriptural Basis: The book provides specific scriptures to declare and apply the blood of Jesus in prayer.
What is the ultimate goal of prayer for the Church according to "Secrets of a Prayer Warrior"?
- Glorious Church: The ultimate goal is for the Church to become a glorious, holy, and mature body of believers.
- Unity in Faith: Achieving unity in the faith and acknowledging Jesus Christ as the head of the Church.
- Manifesting Christ's Fullness: The Church is to manifest the fullness of Christ to the world, demonstrating His love and power.
- Preparation for Christ's Return: Prayer prepares the Church for the return of Jesus, ensuring it is ready and complete.
Review Summary
Secrets of a Prayer Warrior is highly praised by readers for its comprehensive and biblical approach to prayer. Many reviewers found it deeply insightful, practical, and transformative for their prayer lives. The book is commended for its clear language, scriptural basis, and powerful teachings. Readers appreciate Prince's emphasis on aligning with God's will and the book's impact on their faith. While a few disagreed with some theological points, the overwhelming majority rate it as an excellent resource for developing a stronger prayer life and deeper relationship with God.
Similar Books
Download PDF
Download EPUB
.epub
digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.