FROM REPROACH TO PROMOTION

TITLE: FROM REPROACH TO PROMOTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Psalm 30:5 (NKJV) – "For His anger is but for a moment, His favour is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning."

Supporting Texts:
1 Samuel 2:7-8
Psalm 113:7-8
Proverbs 3:34
James 4:10

INTRODUCTION:
The journey of life often takes us through various seasons, and at times we may face reproach, shame, or humiliation. However, God’s promise of restoration and promotion is steadfast. This sermon examines the transition from reproach to promotion, highlighting God's ability to transform our circumstances and lift us to new heights.

1. UNDERSTANDING REPROACH
Reproach signifies disgrace, shame, or dishonour. It can stem from personal failures, societal judgment, or even spiritual challenges.

a) The Nature of Reproach: Reproach can manifest as guilt, shame, or criticism from others (Psalm 69:9).

b) The Source of Reproach: It may arise from our actions, the actions of others, or even spiritual warfare (Matthew 5:11-12).

c) God’s Perspective on Reproach: While reproach may be painful, it can also serve as a teacher, leading us to repentance and growth (Hebrews 12:11).

d) The Temptation to Remain in Reproach: It is easy to settle into a mindset of shame, feeling unworthy of God’s blessings (John 8:11).

Biblical Example:
Hannah faced reproach from Peninnah, yet her anguish led her to seek God earnestly for a child (1 Samuel 1:6-10).

2. GOD’S PROMISE OF RESTORATION
God is not indifferent to our pain; He has a plan for our restoration and promotion.

a) God Sees Our Struggles: God is aware of our circumstances and is compassionate toward our suffering (Exodus 3:7).

b) The Assurance of Favour: God's favour can turn our situation around, offering hope and joy (Psalm 30:5).

c) The Role of Faith: Trusting in God’s promises is essential for experiencing His restoration (Hebrews 11:1).

d) God’s Timing: Restoration often comes in His perfect timing, even when it seems delayed (Isaiah 40:31).

Biblical Example:
Job experienced immense reproach and loss but was restored and blessed double after his faithfulness (Job 42:10).

3. THE PROCESS OF PROMOTION
Moving from reproach to promotion often requires a journey of spiritual growth and perseverance.

a) Embracing Humility: Recognising our weaknesses and relying on God is key to promotion (James 4:10).

b) Enduring Trials: Trials build character and prepare us for greater responsibilities (Romans 5:3-4).

c) Seeking God’s Will: Aligning our desires with God’s purpose opens doors for promotion (Proverbs 3:5-6).

d) Serving Faithfully: Promotion often comes through diligent service in obscurity (Matthew 25:21).

Biblical Example:
Joseph endured betrayal and imprisonment but remained faithful, leading to his promotion in Egypt (Genesis 41:46-48).

4. THE FRUIT OF PROMOTION
Promotion comes with blessings that extend beyond personal gain, impacting others.

a) Blessing Others: Our promotion enables us to be a blessing to those in need (1 Samuel 2:8).

b) Increased Influence: God positions us to influence others for His kingdom (Matthew 5:14-16).

c) Joy and Celebration: Promotion brings joy not just to us, but also to those who witness our transformation (Psalm 126:2).

d) Testimony of God’s Goodness: Our journey from reproach to promotion serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness (Revelation 12:11).

Biblical Example:
Esther moved from obscurity to the palace and used her position to save her people (Esther 4:14).

5. MAINTAINING A HEART OF GRATITUDE
As we transition from reproach to promotion, it is vital to maintain a heart of gratitude.

a) Recognising God’s Hand: Acknowledging God’s role in our journey keeps us humble (Psalm 103:2).

b) Giving Praise: Regularly expressing gratitude through praise affirms our trust in God (Psalm 100:4).

c) Sharing Our Story: Testifying of God’s faithfulness encourages others facing reproach (Psalm 66:16).

d) Continued Faithfulness: Remaining faithful in our new season ensures we continue to honour God (1 Corinthians 4:2).

Biblical Example:
David expressed gratitude to God for his promotion as king, acknowledging that it was God who lifted him (2 Samuel 22:47).

CONCLUSION:
God is able to transform our reproach into promotion, leading us into a season of blessings and joy. By understanding reproach, trusting in God’s promises, and embracing the process of promotion, we can experience the fullness of what He has in store for us. Let us remain grateful and faithful, reflecting His glory in our lives.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to recognise and overcome any reproach in my life.

2. Father, grant me the grace to trust in Your promises of restoration.

3. Lord, I seek Your favour and joy to replace my sorrow.

4. Help me to remain humble and faithful during trials and challenges.

5. Lord, give me the strength to serve diligently in every circumstance.

6. May I be a blessing to others as You promote me.

7. Teach me to share my testimony of Your faithfulness with others.

8. Lord, let my heart remain grateful for all You have done in my life.

9. Help me to seek Your will above all else as I pursue my purpose.

10. Father, I declare that my reproach will turn into promotion for Your glory!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that every reproach in your life is being turned into a testimony of promotion.

2. God is showering you with His favour, replacing your sorrow with joy.

3. You will experience divine restoration and anointing for greater responsibilities.

4. Your faithfulness will lead to promotion that blesses those around you.

5. I decree that your trials are only preparing you for greater things ahead.

6. The Lord will lift you up from obscurity to a place of influence.

7. I declare that you will share your story of transformation to inspire others.

8. Your heart will remain filled with gratitude as you experience God’s goodness.

9. The windows of heaven are opening to pour out blessings upon your life.

10. Your life will be a shining example of God’s grace and favour in the world!