KNOCKDOWN BUT NOT KNOCKED OUT

Title: KNOCKDOWN BUT NOT KNOCKED OUT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 24:16, Romans 8:37, Philippians 3:13-14 

INTRODUCTION
Life can sometimes feel like a boxing match, where we encounter challenges that knock us down. Yet, just as a boxer must rise after being knocked down, we too can get back up with God’s help. This sermon explores the resilience of faith, reminding us that while we may be knocked down, we are never knocked out.

1. UNDERSTANDING KNOCKDOWNS 

a) The Reality of Life’s Challenges
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 acknowledges that we are hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, but we are not crushed. Life's difficulties are real, and we must acknowledge them. 

b) The Purpose of Trials 
James 1:2-4 teaches us to consider it pure joy when we face trials because they develop perseverance. Knockdowns can refine us and strengthen our faith. 

Biblical Example:  Job’s Trials (Job 1-2) 
Job faced immense loss and suffering, being knocked down repeatedly. Yet, his faith remained steadfast, demonstrating that we can endure and rise again.

2. RISING AFTER A KNOCKDOWN 

a) The Importance of Resilience 
Proverbs 24:16 states that though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again. Resilience is key to overcoming life's setbacks. 

b) Leaning on God’s Strength 
Isaiah 40:29 reminds us that God gives strength to the weary. In our moments of weakness, we can rely on God's power to help us rise. 

Biblical Example: Peter’s Denial and Restoration (John 21:15-17) 
Peter denied Christ but was restored by Jesus. Despite his knockdown, Peter rose to become a pillar of the early church, showing that failure does not define our future.

3. THE SPIRIT OF A FIGHTER 

a) A Mindset of Victory 
Romans 8:37 declares that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Embracing a mindset of victory helps us face challenges with confidence. 

b) Focusing on the Goal 
Philippians 3:13-14 encourages us to forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead. Keeping our eyes on the prize motivates us to keep fighting. 

Biblical Example: Paul’s Perseverance (2 Timothy 4:7) 
Paul fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. His life illustrates the importance of perseverance and maintaining focus on God’s calling.

4. THE SUPPORT OF COMMUNITY 

a) Encouragement from Others 
Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of encouraging one another. A supportive community can help us rise after being knocked down. 

b) Bearing One Another’s Burdens 
Galatians 6:2 calls us to carry each other’s burdens. We are not meant to face struggles alone; sharing our challenges fosters healing and support. 

Biblical Example: The Friends of Job (Job 2:11-13) 
Job’s friends came to mourn with him, demonstrating the importance of community during difficult times. They provided support, even when they struggled to understand his situation.

5. GOD’S PROMISE OF RESTORATION 

a) The Assurance of God’s Faithfulness 
Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us that God's mercies are new every morning. We can trust in His faithfulness to restore us after every knockdown. 

b) A Future Filled with Hope
Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans to prosper us and give us hope. Every setback can lead to a greater comeback in God's perfect timing. 

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) 
The prodigal son experienced a major knockdown but was welcomed back by his father with open arms. This story illustrates the grace and restoration God offers when we return to Him.

CONCLUSION 
We may face knockdowns in life, but we are never knocked out. With God's strength, support from our community, and a mindset focused on victory, we can rise again. Remember, every setback is an opportunity for a comeback, and God is always with us, ready to help us back on our feet.

PRAYER POINTS 
1. Lord, give me the strength to rise again after every setback. 

2. Father, help me to see trials as opportunities for growth. 

3. Lord, surround me with a supportive community to encourage me. 

4. Father, renew my mind to focus on Your promises. 

5. Lord, help me to persevere in my faith despite challenges. 

6. Father, restore me and fill me with Your peace. 

7. Lord, let my life be a testimony of resilience and faith. 

8. Father, help me to carry the burdens of others as they carry mine. 

9. Lord, let Your mercies be evident in my life every morning. 

10. Father, I declare that I am more than a conqueror through Christ.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS 
1. I declare that you will rise again after every knockdown. 

2. I prophesy strength and resilience over your life. 

3. I declare that trials will refine you, not define you. 

4. I prophesy victory over every challenge you face. 

5. I declare that God's grace will sustain you in difficult times. 

6. I prophesy restoration and renewal are coming your way. 

7. I declare that you will overcome by the blood of the Lamb. 

8. I prophesy that your testimony will inspire others. 

9. I declare that you are surrounded by a supportive community. 

10. I prophesy that your future is filled with hope and promise.