FROM SETBACK TO COMEBACK

TITLE: FROM SETBACK TO COMEBACK

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro 

Scripture Text: Micah 7:8 - "Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me."

INTRODUCTION
Life is filled with challenges, and setbacks are inevitable. However, what defines us is not the setback itself but how we respond to it. The Bible is filled with stories of men and women who faced tremendous setbacks yet experienced remarkable comebacks. God specializes in turning our setbacks into setups for a greater comeback. This sermon will explore biblical examples and principles that guide us from setbacks to comebacks.

1. JOB: FROM LOSS TO RESTORATION
   - Biblical Reference: Job 1:13-22; Job 42:10-17 
   Key Points: 
     - Job experienced one of the most severe setbacks recorded in Scripture. He lost his children, wealth, and health, and was left with a wife who advised him to curse God. Despite this, Job remained steadfast in his faith.
     - Key Principle:
Perseverance and unwavering faith in God is crucial during setbacks. Job's statement, "Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him" (Job 13:15), reflects his deep trust in God's sovereignty.
     - Comeback:
In Job 42:10, we see a turning point: "And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before." His latter days were more blessed than his former, demonstrating that God can restore even beyond what was lost.

2. JOSEPH: FROM THE PIT TO THE PALACE
   - Biblical Reference: Genesis 37:18-28; Genesis 41:39-44 
   Key Points: 
     - Joseph’s life was marked by a series of setbacks: betrayal by his brothers, being sold into slavery, and wrongful imprisonment. However, God had a divine plan for him.
     - Key Principle:
Trust in God's timing and plan, even when it seems like He is silent. Joseph remained faithful in every season of his life, whether in the pit, Potiphar's house, or prison.
     - Comeback:
Joseph’s ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dream led to his promotion to the second-in-command in Egypt (Genesis 41:41-44). His setback became a stepping stone to his destiny, not just for himself but for the survival of many, including his family (Genesis 50:20).

3. DAVID: FROM REJECTION TO REIGNING AS KING 
   - Biblical Reference: 1 Samuel 16:11-13; 1 Samuel 30:1-20 
   - Key Points: 
     - David faced multiple setbacks: being overlooked by his family, pursued by King Saul, and suffering the loss of his wives and property at Ziklag.
     - Key Principle:
Encourage yourself in the Lord during times of distress. When David faced the destruction of Ziklag and the threat of mutiny from his men, he "strengthened himself in the Lord his God" (1 Samuel 30:6).
     - Comeback:
After inquiring of the Lord, David pursued and recovered all that was lost (1 Samuel 30:18-19). This experience strengthened David, preparing him for the ultimate comeback as the king of Israel.

4. PETER: FROM DENIAL TO DESTINY
   - Biblical Reference: Luke 22:54-62; John 21:15-17; Acts 2:14-41 
   - Key Points: 
     - Peter, who boldly declared his loyalty to Jesus, faced a crushing setback when he denied Christ three times. This failure could have defined him.
     - Key Principle:
God’s grace is sufficient to turn our failures into testimonies. Jesus restored Peter by asking him three times, "Do you love me?" (John 21:15-17), signifying his complete restoration.
     - Comeback:
On the Day of Pentecost, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stood up and preached boldly, leading to the salvation of about 3,000 souls (Acts 2:41). His failure did not disqualify him; it refined him for his destiny.

5. NAOMI AND RUTH: FROM FAMINE TO FULLNESS 
   - Biblical Reference: Ruth 1:1-22; Ruth 4:13-17 
     Key Points: 
     - Naomi experienced a devastating setback with the death of her husband and sons, leading to a period of bitterness and despair. However, Ruth's loyalty and faithfulness became a catalyst for their comeback.
     Key Principle:
God can use the loyalty and faithfulness of others as a pathway to restoration. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel opened the door to their redemption.
     Comeback:
Ruth married Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, and they became the great-grandparents of King David (Ruth 4:13-17). Naomi, who once said, "Call me Mara," because "the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me" (Ruth 1:20), was restored to joy.

6. JESUS CHRIST: THE ULTIMATE COMEBACK
   - Biblical Reference: Matthew 27:50-53; Matthew 28:1-7 
   Key Points: 
 Jesus faced the ultimate setback in His crucifixion. He was despised, rejected, and crucified. It appeared as though death had triumphed.
    Key Principle:
The resurrection is the ultimate symbol of God’s power to turn the greatest setback into the most glorious comeback. Jesus’ resurrection not only validated His deity but also provided eternal hope for humanity.
     Comeback:
Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, overcoming sin and death and securing victory for all who believe in Him (Matthew 28:5-6). This comeback changed the course of human history forever.

7.   MODERN-DAY EXAMPLES
Here are some powerful testimonies from African and Nigerian individuals who moved from significant setbacks to remarkable comebacks, demonstrating resilience, faith, and determination:

1. Dr. Paul Enenche: From Challenges to a Global Ministry

  Background: Dr. Paul Enenche is the founder and senior pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, one of the fastest-growing churches in Nigeria with branches worldwide.

   - Setback: While initially pursuing a medical career, Dr Enenche faced various personal and professional challenges, including resistance from family and societal expectations when he decided to transition into full-time ministry.

   - Comeback: Trusting God's call, Dr. Enenche founded Dunamis International Gospel Centre in 1996 with a focus on revival, healing, and the power of God. The church has grown exponentially and now includes The Glory Dome, a 100,000-seater auditorium, one of the largest in the world. Dr. Enenche is also a best-selling author, songwriter, and a global voice for the gospel.

   - Key Message: When you obey God's call, even when faced with opposition and challenges, He can use your obedience to birth something extraordinary.

2. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: From Rejection to Global Leadership

   - Background: Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an internationally renowned economist and the first African and first woman to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

   - Setback: During her time as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, Okonjo-Iweala faced significant opposition and criticism for her economic reforms, which led to numerous challenges and even threats to her life. She was dismissed from her role due to political maneuvering and resistance to her anti-corruption measures.

   - Comeback: Despite the challenges, she continued her career on the global stage, becoming a senior official at the World Bank and eventually being appointed as Director-General of the WTO in 2021. Her work has significantly impacted global trade and economic policies.

   - Key Message: God can turn public rejection into global recognition when you remain steadfast, diligent, and true to your purpose.

3. Pastor Enoch Adeboye: From Obscurity to Global Spiritual Leadership

   - Background: Pastor Enoch Adeboye is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), a church with a global presence in over 190 countries.

   - Setback: Pastor Adeboye faced humble beginnings and considerable personal sacrifices when he left his academic career as a professor to serve full-time in the ministry. The RCCG, at the time, was relatively unknown and faced several challenges.

   - Comeback: Under his leadership, RCCG experienced tremendous growth, becoming one of the largest and fastest-growing Pentecostal movements worldwide. Pastor Adeboye's obedience to God's call transformed a small church into a global ministry that has impacted millions.

   - Key Message: God can turn obscurity into global influence when you faithfully follow His direction, no matter the sacrifices required.

4. Nick Vujicic: From Despair to Global Inspiration

Background: Born without arms and legs due to a rare condition called tetra-amelia syndrome, Nick Vujicic faced significant physical and emotional challenges. He battled depression and struggled with questions about his purpose.

Setback: Nick’s condition led to severe bullying during his childhood, resulting in deep feelings of hopelessness and even suicidal thoughts at a young age.

Comeback: Despite his physical limitations, Nick found faith in God and discovered a powerful purpose in his life: to inspire and motivate others. He founded the ministry Life Without Limbs and became a world-renowned speaker, author, and evangelist. His story of resilience and hope has touched millions around the world. He often says, "I am God's masterpiece," encouraging others to view themselves as valuable and purposed.Key Message: God's grace and purpose can turn any setback into a powerful testimony of hope and faith.

5. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: From Rejection to Literary Stardom

   - Background: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is one of Nigeria's most celebrated authors, known for her critically acclaimed novels such as "Half of a Yellow Sun" and "Americanah."

   - Setback: Adichie faced multiple rejections early in her writing career. Publishers turned down her manuscripts, and she struggled to find a foothold in the literary world.

   - Comeback: Despite the rejections, Adichie persevered and continued honing her craft. Her novels have since won numerous international awards and have been translated into multiple languages. She is now a global voice on literature, feminism, and African culture.

   - Key Message: Rejection is not the end. With persistence, one can turn literary setbacks into global influence.

6.  Joyce Meyer: From Abuse to a Global Ministry

Background: Joyce Meyer, now a globally known Christian author and speaker, experienced severe abuse and trauma in her early life.

Setback: Joyce endured sexual abuse from her father throughout her childhood, which led to a life marked by bitterness, insecurity, and pain. Her early adult years were also filled with emotional turmoil and broken relationships.

Comeback: Through her faith in God, Joyce found healing and restoration. She began a Bible study that grew into a worldwide ministry, Joyce Meyer Ministries. She has written numerous books and preaches to millions around the world about healing, restoration, and living a victorious life.

Key Message: God can heal even the deepest wounds and turn a painful past into a powerful ministry. With God's help, our greatest mess can become our greatest message.

7. Helen Paul: From Humble Beginnings to Comedy Queen and Academic Success

   - Background: Helen Paul, known as "Tatafo," is a celebrated Nigerian comedian, actress, and academic.

   - Setback: Helen Paul faced a challenging childhood, being born into poverty and raised by her grandmother. She faced numerous financial and social obstacles while pursuing her dreams.

   - Comeback: Helen Paul rose above her circumstances to become one of Nigeria's most beloved comedians and actors. She continued her education, eventually earning a Ph.D. in Theatre Arts. She now serves as a role model for many young Nigerians, proving that one’s background does not determine their destiny.

   - Key Message: With determination, hard work, and faith, you can rise from humble beginnings to achieve greatness in multiple fields.

CONCLUSION
Setbacks are often divine setups for a mighty comeback. God uses these moments to refine us, build our character, and prepare us for greater things. The stories of Job, Joseph, David, Peter, Naomi, Ruth, and ultimately Jesus, demonstrate that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). As we trust Him, He will turn every setback into a setup for a greater testimony. Remember Micah 7:8: "When I fall, I shall arise." No matter the setback, in God, there is always a comeback.

Call to Action:
1. Reflect on any setbacks you are currently facing. Trust that God is working behind the scenes.
- 2. Pray for God’s strength and wisdom to see His plan unfold.
- 3.  Encourage others with the truth that God can turn any setback into a setup for a comeback.

PRAYER POINTS: FROM SETBACK TO COMEBACK

1. Thanksgiving for God’s Sovereignty
   - Pray and thank God for His sovereignty over every situation, recognizing that He is in control even during our setbacks.
   - Scripture Reference: Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

2. Grace to Endure and Persevere in Times of Setbacks
   - Pray for the grace to endure challenges and to persevere through trials, just like Job did despite his losses.
   - Scripture Reference: James 1:2-4 - "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds..."

3. Strength to Trust in God’s Plan and Timing
   - Pray for the strength to trust in God's divine plan and timing, as Joseph did, even when His promises seem delayed.
   - Scripture Reference: Isaiah 40:31 - "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength."

4. Restoration of All That Has Been Lost 
   - Pray for divine restoration of everything that has been lost due to setbacks, as God restored Job’s fortunes and gave him double.
   - Scripture Reference: Joel 2:25 - "I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten..."

5. Wisdom to Make the Right Decisions During Difficult Times 
   - Pray for wisdom to make the right decisions and to follow God’s leading during difficult times, as David did when he sought the Lord at Ziklag.
   - Scripture Reference: James 1:5 - "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault."

6. Restoration from Failure and Grace to Rise Again
   - Pray for grace to rise again from any personal failures, just as Peter did after denying Jesus, and to walk in God’s purpose.
   - Scripture Reference: Micah 7:8 - "Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise..."

7. Favour and Divine Connections for a Comeback
   - Pray for divine favour and connections that will lead to a comeback, like Ruth's connection with Boaz.
   - Scripture Reference: Psalm 102:13 - "You will arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favour her, yes, the set time, has come."

8. Faith to Believe in the Power of the Resurrection 
   - Pray for increased faith to believe in the resurrection power of Jesus Christ, which can bring life to any dead situation.
   - Scripture Reference: Philippians 3:10 - "That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection..."

9. Breaking the Spirit of Discouragement 
   - Pray against any spirit of discouragement that seeks to keep us from experiencing our comeback. Ask for God's encouragement and strength to rise above discouragement.
   - Scripture Reference: Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you..."

10. Divine Strategy for a New Beginning
   - Pray for divine strategies and insight for a new beginning, allowing God to guide you into your season of comeback.
   - Scripture Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Final Prayer:
Father, we thank You that You are the God who turns setbacks into comebacks. We pray that You grant us the grace, wisdom, and strength to endure and trust in Your perfect timing. Restore what we have lost, give us the courage to rise from every fall, and guide us with divine strategies for a new beginning. We declare that we shall experience a mighty comeback for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS: From Setback to Comeback

1. Declaration of Divine Restoration
   - "I declare that every loss I have experienced will be restored in Jesus' name. Just as Job received a double portion for his trouble, I decree double blessings and restoration for everything lost or stolen."

2. Declaration of Rising from Every Fall
   - "I prophesy that I shall rise from every fall and setback. Though I may have stumbled, I declare that I am rising stronger and better in the name of Jesus. My enemies shall not rejoice over me!"

3. Declaration of New Beginnings
   - "I declare a new beginning in every area of my life. Just as God took Joseph from the pit to the palace, I declare that my journey of setbacks is turning into a divine setup for greatness and elevation."

4. Declaration of Supernatural Favour
   - "I decree and declare that the favour of God surrounds me as a shield. Just as Ruth found favour with Boaz, I shall find favour with God and man. Divine connections and opportunities are locating me now in Jesus' name."

5. Declaration of Breakthrough Over Failure 
   - "I declare that every failure is turning into a testimony. Just as Peter was restored and became a pillar of the early church, I prophesy that every past failure will fuel my destiny and divine purpose."

6. Declaration of Courage and Strength 
   - "I declare that I am strong and courageous in the Lord. Like David, I encourage myself in God, and I shall recover all that has been lost or stolen in the name of Jesus."

7. Declaration of Resurrection Power
   - "I prophesy that every dead situation in my life is coming back to life by the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. Just as Christ rose from the dead, I declare that life, hope, and joy are being restored to me now."

8. Declaration of Divine Strategy and Wisdom 
   - "I declare that God is giving me divine strategies and wisdom for every situation. I will not lean on my own understanding, but in all my ways, I acknowledge God, and He is making my paths straight."

9. Declaration of Freedom from Discouragement 
   - "I decree that the spirit of discouragement and despair is broken over my life. I declare that I am filled with hope, joy, and peace through the Holy Spirit. I will not be dismayed, for the Lord is with me."

10. Declaration of an Overflowing Comeback 
    - "I declare that my comeback shall be greater than my setback. I am moving from a season of lack to a season of abundance, from mourning to dancing, and from defeat to victory. I decree a season of overflow, in Jesus' mighty name!"

Final Prophetic Declaration:
I declare that I am stepping into a season of supernatural comeback. Every setback is becoming a stepping stone to a greater testimony. The Lord is turning my mourning into dancing, my pain into purpose, and my trials into triumph. I am an overcomer, and my story is changing for the glory of God. In Jesus' name, Amen!