AND THE LORD DEFENDED ME

Title: AND THE LORD DEFENDED ME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 34:7
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 54:17, Exodus 14:14, Romans 8:31, Psalm 46:1

INTRODUCTION:
In times of trouble and adversity, we often find ourselves in need of divine defense. The Lord is our protector and defender, ensuring that we are shielded from harm and injustice. This message explores the ways God defends His people, providing examples from Scripture that illustrate His faithfulness and power in our lives.

1. UNDERSTANDING DIVINE DEFENSE

a) God as Our Defender
The Lord promises to defend His people against all adversities and attacks (Psalm 34:7).

b) The Assurance of His Protection
Knowing that God is our defender gives us peace and confidence (Isaiah 54:17).

c) Spiritual Warfare
Our battles are spiritual, and God equips us with the armor needed for defense (Ephesians 6:10-18).

d) His Presence in Our Defense
God’s presence goes before us, providing protection and guidance (Deuteronomy 31:8).

Biblical Example: David and Goliath – David relied on God’s defense when facing Goliath, and the Lord delivered him (1 Samuel 17:45-50).

2. GOD’S PROMISES OF DEFENSE

a) His Word as Our Shield
The promises of God serve as a shield and refuge in times of trouble (Psalm 91:4).

b) The Power of Prayer
Prayer invites God’s defense into our situations, activating His power (Philippians 4:6-7).

c) Faith in His Protection
Trusting in God’s promises fortifies our hearts and minds against fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

d) His Faithfulness to Defend Us
God’s character assures us that He will defend His people (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Biblical Example: Daniel in the Lions' Den – God shut the mouths of lions, defending Daniel against certain death (Daniel 6:16-23).

3. RECOGNIZING OUR ENEMIES

a) Identifying Spiritual Opponents
Our true enemies are spiritual forces that seek to harm us (Ephesians 6:12).

b) The Role of the Accuser
Satan, the accuser, attempts to undermine our confidence and standing before God (Revelation 12:10).

c) Physical vs. Spiritual Battles
Understanding that not all battles are physical allows us to respond with spiritual weapons (2 Corinthians 10:3-4).

d) God’s Power Over Our Adversaries
No one can stand against God’s might; He fights our battles (Romans 8:31).

Biblical Example: The Israelites at the Red Sea – God defended His people against the pursuing Egyptians, parting the sea for their escape (Exodus 14:14-22).

4. THE OUTWORKING OF DIVINE DEFENSE

a) God’s Timing in Defense
God defends us in His timing, which may not align with our expectations (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

b) Praise as a Weapon
Praising God can invoke His defense and intervention in our circumstances (2 Chronicles 20:21-22).

c) Community Support
God often uses others to defend and support us during challenges (Galatians 6:2).

d) Testimonies of God’s Defense
Sharing our experiences of God’s defense encourages others in their faith (Revelation 12:11).

Biblical Example: The Woman Caught in Adultery – Jesus defended her against her accusers, demonstrating His mercy and protection (John 8:3-11).

5. LIVING IN THE LIGHT OF HIS DEFENSE

a) Confidence in God’s Defense
Living with the assurance that God defends us helps us face challenges boldly (Hebrews 13:6).

b) Sharing His Goodness
We should testify of God’s defense in our lives to encourage others (Psalm 66:16).

c) Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude
Acknowledging God’s defense fosters a spirit of thankfulness (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

d) Praying for Others’ Defense
We should intercede for others, asking God to defend them as well (James 5:16).

Biblical Example: Job’s Restoration – God defended Job’s integrity and restored his fortunes, demonstrating His ultimate defense (Job 42:10).

CONCLUSION:
God is our ever-present defender, ready to shield us from all forms of attack. By trusting in His promises, recognizing our spiritual enemies, and living out His word, we can confidently face challenges, knowing that the Lord is fighting for us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for being my defender in every situation.

2. I declare that no weapon formed against me shall prosper.

3. Lord, help me to rely on Your promises for protection.

4. I pray for the strength to face my spiritual battles.

5. May Your peace guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.

6. I ask for Your defense against all accusations of the enemy.

7. Surround me with supportive people who will stand with me.

8. Thank You for the testimonies of Your defense in my life.

9. I will share Your goodness and faithfulness with others.

10. Help me to intercede for those who need Your defense.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. The Lord will defend you against every adversary.

2. You shall see the hand of God working for your defense.

3. No evil shall come near your dwelling; God is your protector.

4. The accusations against you shall be silenced by the Lord.

5. God will surround you with His favour as a shield.

6. You will experience divine intervention in your challenges.

7. The Lord’s presence will be your refuge and strength.

8. Your testimony of God’s defense will inspire others.

9. You will walk in peace, knowing God fights for you.

10. Every battle you face will lead to your victory in Christ.