DEALING WITH HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

Title: DEALING WITH HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 10:36
Supporting Texts: Psalm 55:12-14, Micah 7:6, 1 Peter 5:8

INTRODUCTION:
In life, one of the greatest sources of conflict and betrayal often comes from those closest to us—family members, relatives, and loved ones. These are individuals we trust, yet they can become the very source of opposition, misunderstanding, and even direct attack. Jesus Himself warned that a man’s enemies could be those of his own household (Matthew 10:36). This sermon will explore how to deal with household enemies, overcome these challenges, and walk in victory, knowing that God is our ultimate protector and deliverer.

1. UNDERSTANDING HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

a) Definition of Household Enemies
Household enemies are individuals who, due to various reasons, act as adversaries within the family or close-knit circle, causing harm, division, or strife.

b) The Roots of Household Enemies
These enemies often arise due to jealousy, bitterness, or competition. Sometimes they stem from unresolved conflicts, generational curses, or misunderstandings.

c) The Spiritual Battle Behind Household Enmity
The conflict is not always merely physical but spiritual. The enemy uses familiar spirits to create discord and destroy relationships (Ephesians 6:12).

d) Recognizing the Dangers of Household Enemies
Household enemies can cause emotional and spiritual distress. They aim to disrupt peace, hinder progress, and limit the blessing of God in the family.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 37:4-11)
Joseph’s brothers, out of jealousy and envy, became his household enemies, leading to betrayal and suffering, yet God used this adversity to elevate Joseph.

2. THE IMPACT OF HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

a) Emotional Turmoil and Hurt
The pain of betrayal by those closest to us can be deep. Household enemies can inflict emotional wounds that affect one’s peace and joy.

b) Dividing the Family
These enemies often sow seeds of discord, causing division, distrust, and even disintegration within the family unit.

c) Limiting Progress and Blessings
Household enemies can create roadblocks to progress and blessings, as they work to prevent growth, success, and unity.

d) Attacking Your Identity and Destiny
The attacks of household enemies often challenge your identity in Christ and seek to thwart God’s plan for your life.

e) Biblical Example: David and His Son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:1-14)
Absalom, David’s son, rose against him, causing division and rebellion in the kingdom, highlighting the destructive power of household enmity.

3. STRATEGIES FOR DEALING WITH HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

a) Praying for Protection and Deliverance
The first response should always be prayer. Pray for God’s protection and deliverance from the attacks of household enemies (Psalm 121:7-8).

b) Maintaining a Spirit of Forgiveness
It’s crucial to forgive those who have wronged you, as bitterness only gives the enemy a foothold (Ephesians 4:31-32).

c) Seeking God’s Wisdom in Handling Conflicts
Wisdom is key in dealing with family issues. Seek God’s guidance in navigating difficult relationships and resolving conflicts.

d) Putting on the Whole Armor of God
Engage in spiritual warfare by putting on the full armor of God. This will protect you from the fiery darts of the enemy (Ephesians 6:10-18).

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah and His Enemies (Nehemiah 4:1-9)
Nehemiah faced opposition from within his own people, but he responded with prayer and perseverance, focusing on the work God had called him to.

4. GOD’S PROMISES AGAINST HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

a) God Will Fight for You
When you face enemies within your household, trust in God’s promise to fight your battles. He is a mighty warrior and will contend with those who contend with you (Exodus 14:14).

b) God Will Restore Peace
God promises to restore peace and unity where there has been division. He is the God who makes all things new (Isaiah 61:7).

c) Victory Over the Enemy
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, even when that weapon comes from within your own household (Isaiah 54:17).

d) Protection from Harm
God promises to protect you from all harm, including the harm caused by household enemies (Psalm 91:9-10).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus' Reconciliation with His Family (John 7:5, Mark 3:21-35)
Jesus' own family initially rejected Him, but He continued to fulfill God’s purpose, and later, His family came to believe in Him.

5. PRACTICAL STEPS TO PEACE WITH HOUSEHOLD ENEMIES

a) Open Communication and Reconciliation
Where possible, open the lines of communication and seek reconciliation. Love and honesty can heal many wounds.

b) Establish Boundaries
Sometimes, to protect your peace, it may be necessary to set healthy boundaries with household enemies while still showing love.

c) Seeking Mediation or Counsel
In cases where conflicts persist, seeking the counsel of a mature believer or mediator can help to resolve the issue.

d) Trusting God for Justice
Sometimes, the best course of action is to trust that God will bring justice. He is a righteous judge, and He sees all (Romans 12:19).

e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Reconciliation with Barnabas (Acts 15:36-41)
Paul and Barnabas, though once in conflict, reconciled and continued their ministry, demonstrating the power of forgiveness and reconciliation.

CONCLUSION:
Dealing with household enemies is never easy, but it is possible through the power of prayer, forgiveness, and trusting in God’s promises. We are called to love our enemies, but we are also empowered by God to stand firm in the face of opposition. Remember, no weapon formed against you shall prosper, and God is your refuge and strength. He will deliver you from every household enemy and give you peace.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I pray for Your protection from every household enemy in my life.

2. Father, deliver me from any evil schemes that have been devised against me within my household.

3. I declare peace over my family and bind every spirit of division and strife.

4. Lord, help me to forgive those who have wronged me, and heal every broken relationship.

5. I ask for Your wisdom to handle conflicts and relationships with grace and understanding.

6. Father, fight for me and give me victory over every enemy, seen and unseen, within my household.

7. Lord, restore unity and peace in my home, and remove all forms of bitterness and resentment.

8. I declare that no weapon formed against my family will prosper.

9. Father, protect my heart from the hurt and bitterness caused by household enemies.

10. I trust in Your justice, Lord, and believe that You will right every wrong done against me.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Every household enemy that has risen against you shall be defeated in the mighty name of Jesus.

2. God will restore peace and unity in your family, and you will experience His favor.

3. No weapon formed against you in your household will prosper; you are covered by the blood of Jesus.

4. I declare that God will expose and destroy every plot of the enemy within your family.

5. God will heal every broken relationship in your household and bring reconciliation.

6. Your family will experience divine protection, and every scheme of the enemy will fail.

7. The Lord will raise a standard against every attack of the enemy in your life and home.

8. I declare that you will walk in victory, and your household will be a place of peace and joy.

9. The Lord will turn every situation around for your good and bring restoration.

10. As you trust in the Lord, every household enemy will be scattered, and your peace will be restored.