Spiritual Warfare: 'Living in Sin Means I’m Obeying Satan'

God's Power for Our Battles — Wednesday, January 21, 2026

You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil — the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.
— Ephesians 2:2a NLT

Today's Prayer

Lord, I know that many demonic powers and authorities are in the unseen realm and that Satan is their commander. I know he and his forces are at work in the hearts of men, urging disobedience and rebellion from Your authority. I know that he is powerful and that his path is evil, leading to eternal destruction. Help me to realize that following Satan means I’m living in a state of sinfulness, Lord, and please help me to follow Jesus every day instead. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

25 Related Resources by Heartlight

Dead in Sins
Devo: Praying with Paul
"Dear Father, King of the Ages, Thank you for the new life you have infused into my being. I once was dead because of the misdeeds and sins in which I..."
Filled with the Holy Spirit
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Child of Glory, The world is filled with many beautiful and precious people. Unfortunately, so many of them miss their greatest opportunities......"
The Thing about Sorrow
Article by Lisa Mikitarian
What can we do when we can't walk in the shoes of another in grief? Lisa Mikitarian shares from current events and from her own experience about the grief and sorrow those we love face and how to help them -- support them, come alongside of them to support, care, and love them.
I See Dead People
Article by Alan Smith
Have you notice any strange odors lately at work? There are spiritually dead people all around us.
See All 25 Related Resources about Ephesians 2:2

Illustration

Illustration of Ephesians 2:2a NLT — You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil — the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'Both Heaven and Earth' (Is. 66:1-2)
"This is what the Lord says: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such...."
Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Henry Ward Beecher:
"There is not a heart but has its moments of longing, yearning for something better; nobler; holier than it knows now."
God's Holy Fire
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
'I Can't Take It All In!' (Ps. 139:5-10)
"I look behind me and you're there, then up ahead and you're there, too — your reassuring presence, coming and going. This is too much, too wonderful..."
What Jesus Did!
A daily guide from the gospels that challenges readers to live for Jesus.
'God Is Spirit!' (Jn. 4:24)
"[Jesus concluded his response about worship,] "For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.""

About This Devotional

Spiritual Warfare is a daily devotional about God's power for our battles.

The Prayer for Spiritual Warfare is written by Steve Hemphill.

More Spiritual Warfare