Definition: The Bible defines evil as anything that is contrary to God’s will, moral character, and divine law. It encompasses sin, wickedness, and any actions or attitudes that oppose God’s righteousness. Evil can manifest in various forms, including spiritual rebellion, moral corruption, and harm to others. According to the Bible, evil originates from Satan and human disobedience, but God ultimately holds authority over it and uses even evil for His sovereign purposes.
Key Bible Scriptures
- Genesis 6:5 – “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”
- This verse highlights the evil in humanity’s heart that led to the Great Flood.
- Isaiah 5:20 – “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
- This warns against moral inversion—confusing evil with good.
- Psalm 34:14 – “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”
- This verse encourages people to turn away from evil and actively pursue good.
- Proverbs 8:13 – “The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.”
- True reverence for God involves a hatred for evil and all associated with it.
- Romans 12:21 – “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”
- This encourages believers to counter evil with good deeds and a righteous attitude.
- Ephesians 6:12 – “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
- This emphasizes the spiritual nature of evil and the battle against it.
- James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
- This verse advises believers to resist evil by submitting to God.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:22 – “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
- Christians are advised to avoid even the appearance of evil to maintain a pure witness.
Prayer Points with Scriptures
- Pray for Protection from Evil
- Scripture: Psalm 121:7 – “The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul.”
- Prayer: “Lord, protect me from all forms of evil, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Guard my soul and keep me in Your peace.”
- Pray for Deliverance from Evil
- Scripture: Matthew 6:13 – “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”
- Prayer: “Father, deliver me from all evil influences and lead me away from temptation. Strengthen me to follow Your path of righteousness.”
- Pray for Strength to Resist Evil
- Scripture: James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
- Prayer: “Lord, grant me the strength to resist the devil and all forms of evil. Help me to submit fully to Your will.”
- Pray for Victory Over Spiritual Forces of Evil
- Scripture: Ephesians 6:12 – “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
- Prayer: “Heavenly Father, equip me with Your full armor to stand against the spiritual forces of evil. Help me to fight in Your power, not my own.”
- Pray for God’s Justice Against Evil
- Scripture: Psalm 94:16 – “Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? or who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity?”
- Prayer: “Lord, rise up against those who do evil and bring about Your justice. Defend the oppressed and bring righteousness to prevail.”
These prayer points and scriptures encourage believers to seek God’s protection, guidance, and victory over evil in all its forms.