AND THE LORD SUBDUED MY ADVERSARIES

Title: AND THE LORD SUBDUED MY ADVERSARIES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 18:47
Supporting Texts: Psalm 44:5, Isaiah 54:17, Romans 8:31, 1 John 5:4

INTRODUCTION:
In the journey of life, adversaries and challenges often arise to deter us from our God-given paths. However, the promise that the Lord will subdue our adversaries assures us of His mighty power to conquer all who oppose us. This sermon will explore the truth that, when we rely on God, our adversaries can be defeated, leading us to victory.

1. UNDERSTANDING OUR ADVERSARIES

a) Recognising the Nature of Our Adversaries
Adversaries can come in various forms: spiritual, physical, or emotional (Ephesians 6:12).

b) The Enemy's Strategy
The enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, but we must remain vigilant (John 10:10).

c) God’s Assurance of Victory
God assures us that we are more than conquerors through Him (Romans 8:37).

d) The Role of Faith in Conquering Adversaries
Our faith in God enables us to overcome any challenges we face (1 John 5:4).

Biblical Example: Gideon's Victory – God used Gideon to defeat a multitude of enemies with just 300 men (Judges 7:19-22).

2. THE PROMISE OF GOD’S SUPPORT

a) God as Our Defender
God is our refuge and strength, ready to help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

b) His Power Against Our Enemies
The Lord fights for us, and we need only to be still (Exodus 14:14).

c) God’s Faithfulness in Battle
We can trust that God will not abandon us when we face adversaries (Deuteronomy 31:6).

d) Prayer as a Weapon
Prayer empowers us to seek God's intervention against our adversaries (James 5:16).

Biblical Example: David and Goliath – David’s faith led to God’s intervention against Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-50).

3. SPIRITUAL STRATEGIES FOR SUBDUING ADVERSARIES

a) Putting on the Whole Armour of God
Equipping ourselves spiritually is crucial for facing adversaries (Ephesians 6:10-18).

b) Declaring God’s Word
Speaking the Word of God into our situations establishes His power over our adversaries (Isaiah 55:11).

c) Worship as Warfare
Praise and worship can shift the atmosphere and invite God’s presence to subdue enemies (2 Chronicles 20:22).

d) Walking in Obedience
Obeying God’s commands positions us for His blessings and victory over our adversaries (Joshua 1:8).

Biblical Example: Jehoshaphat’s Victory – Jehoshaphat won battles through prayer and worship (2 Chronicles 20:1-30).

4. TESTIMONIES OF GOD’S VICTORY

a) Sharing Personal Testimonies
Sharing stories of how God has subdued our adversaries encourages others (Revelation 12:11).

b) Learning from Scripture
The Bible is filled with accounts of God subduing adversaries, reminding us of His power (Hebrews 13:8).

c) Building Faith through Testimonies
Hearing others' testimonies strengthens our faith for our own battles (Romans 10:17).

d) Celebrating Victories
We must celebrate the victories God gives us to encourage faith within the community (Psalm 126:3).

Biblical Example: Daniel in the Lion’s Den – Daniel’s faith led to God shutting the mouths of lions (Daniel 6:22).

5. LIVING IN THE VICTORY OF THE LORD

a) Embracing Our Identity as Victors
We are called to live as victors, not victims (2 Corinthians 2:14).

b) Cultivating a Life of Praise
A lifestyle of praise invites God’s presence and power against adversaries (Psalm 34:1).

c) Remaining Vigilant and Prayerful
Continuous prayer and vigilance keep us ready for spiritual warfare (1 Peter 5:8).

d) Engaging in Community Support
Supporting one another in faith strengthens our collective ability to face adversaries (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Biblical Example: The Early Church – The early believers overcame persecution through unity and prayer (Acts 4:31).

CONCLUSION:
The assurance that the Lord will subdue our adversaries gives us hope and strength in the face of challenges. We must remember to rely on His power, employ spiritual strategies, and walk in our identity as victors in Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I thank You for being my defender against my adversaries.

2. I declare that every enemy that rises against me shall fall.

3. Help me to recognize the strategies of the enemy.

4. I pray for strength and courage to face my challenges.

5. Lord, empower my prayers to bring about victory.

6. I ask for Your presence to be with me in every battle.

7. Help me to put on the whole armour of God daily.

8. I choose to walk in obedience to Your Word.

9. May my life reflect Your victory over my adversaries.

10. Thank You for the testimonies of Your faithfulness in my life.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. The Lord is rising up to subdue your adversaries.

2. You will see the hand of God working on your behalf.

3. Every plot against you is being dismantled in Jesus’ name.

4. You are equipped with divine power to overcome every challenge.

5. God’s peace will reign in your heart amid the storm.

6. You will testify of God's faithfulness in your battles.

7. The enemy’s voice will be silenced in your life.

8. You will walk in the victory that Christ has secured for you.

9. Your faith will inspire others to trust in God’s power.

10. The Lord is making a way for you where there seems to be no way.