While Jesus was on the earth, he protected his people from any harm. While there were people out to get him because of his “radical beliefs” he continued to protect his people so they would not come to any physical harm. Even in the garden after this prayer when they came to arrest him and Peter cut off the ear of one of the soldiers, Jesus healed the man and did not seek violence. As Isaiah foretold, he was like a lamb led to the slaughter. He willingly went to the cross and did not resist.
So here in John 17:10, he prays for us, that we would be protected against the enemy. The devil even tried to tempt him while he was on earth, so he knew the schemes the devil would pull. He knew how powerful the words of the enemy could be, how enticing he could be. He wanted to protect his children from the arrows of the enemy. This prayer shows how selfless he really was. He thought of us and our spiritual well-being in his final hours. He demonstrated how to pray against the enemy. We can also pray against the enemy for those around us. The Bible says the devil is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. He is always roaming the earth looking for people that he can destroy. His lies only bring about destruction in this world.
We must be on guard against the enemy. Ephesians 6 Paul talks about the armor of God and urges believers to take up this armor when defending themselves against the devil. Each piece of the armor will protect us in a different way. The sword of truth is God’s word, and it is living and active. Sharper than any double edged sword. The helmet of salvation guards our minds as the world fills us with its lies. You can read about the other pieces of the armor in Ephesians 6. Spend some time in prayer today for those you know who need to come to know Jesus and be rescued from the enemy. Also, pray for believers you know who need strength to defend themselves against the enemy. Prayer is powerful.