Harare Post recently sat down with Bishop Ladwell Matanhike, the Visionary Leader of Rugare Apostolic Fellowship Church (RAFC), to discuss how Christians—especially the youth—can overcome spiritual attacks in schools, communities, and even within their families.
The Bishop emphasised that believers must remain vigilant in their spiritual walk, drawing strength from God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship.
“Spiritual attacks are real, but they are not insurmountable when we remain rooted in Christ. God has already given us the tools we need to overcome,” said Bishop Matanhike.
The Bishop reminded believers of the apostle Paul’s instruction, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Prayer, he explained, is not merely a ritual but a lifeline that connects us to divine strength.
“When a child of God develops a lifestyle of prayer, they build an unshakeable spiritual fortress. Prayer strengthens our inner being and keeps us alert against the enemy’s schemes,” he told Harare Post.
Citing Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path”—Bishop Matanhike stressed the importance of Bible study.
He noted how Jesus Himself overcame temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11) by standing firmly on Scripture.
“If Jesus, the Son of God, used the Word to silence the devil, how much more should we depend on it in our daily battles?” asked the Bishop.
Bishop Matanhike highlighted the role of Christian fellowship in overcoming spiritual struggles.
Quoting Hebrews10:24-25, he said, “Surround yourself with supportive believers who will encourage you, pray with you, and walk with you. Christianity is not meant to be lived in isolation—community strengthens us in times of weakness.”
Turning to Ephesians 6:10-18, the Bishop outlined the significance of the full armour of God.
“Every believer must clothe themselves with the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, and the sword of the Spirit. Without the armour, we are exposed, but with it, no weapon formed against us can prosper,” he declared.
The Bishop further reminded readers of James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
He encouraged Christians not to underestimate the power of surrendering to God’s will.
“Resistance begins with submission—when you yield to God, you become too hot for the devil to handle,” he explained.
Finally, Bishop Matanhike quoted Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
He encouraged students, parents, and professionals alike to stand boldly in Christ.
“Your strength does not come from your own willpower but from Christ dwelling within you. That is why victory is guaranteed,” he assured.
Dr Bishop Ladwell Matanhike is the Visionary Leader of Rugare Apostolic Fellowship Church (RAFC). He hosts several religious programmes on national radio stations such as Radio Zimbabwe and National FM. He can be contacted at +263 77 249 1507.
