DESTROYING NEAR-SUCCESS SYNDROME

Title: DESTROYING NEAR-SUCCESS SYNDROME

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 17:45-47
Supporting Texts: Genesis 39:1-23, Philippians 4:13, Hebrews 10:35-36

INTRODUCTION:
Near-Success Syndrome refers to the experience of being on the brink of a breakthrough, only to fall short at the last moment. Many believers find themselves struggling with this cycle, experiencing repeated setbacks just when victory seems imminent. This syndrome often leads to frustration, confusion, and discouragement. However, through the power of God's Word and prayer, we can break free from the chains of near-success and step into the full manifestation of our victories. In this sermon, we will learn how to destroy the Near-Success Syndrome by applying biblical principles that lead to breakthrough.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE NEAR-SUCCESS SYNDROME

a) The Cycle of Near Success
Near-Success Syndrome occurs when a person gets close to achieving a goal but encounters a sudden or unexpected obstacle just before reaching the finish line.

b) The Root of Near Success
Often, near-success is rooted in a spiritual battle against destiny. The enemy works to discourage believers from walking in their purpose, especially when they are close to their breakthrough.

c) The Spiritual Forces Behind Near-Success Syndrome
There are spiritual forces at work, including the spirit of delay and discouragement, that seek to prevent individuals from realizing their full potential in God.

d) The Emotional Impact of Near Success
Experiencing this syndrome can lead to a cycle of discouragement, low self-esteem, and a sense of defeat, even when progress has been made.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites’ Near Success in the Promised Land (Numbers 13:30-33)
The Israelites were on the verge of entering the Promised Land, but the report from the spies caused them to doubt, leading to a delay in their victory.

2. SPIRITUAL PRINCIPLES TO BREAK NEAR-SUCCESS SYNDROME

a) Recognize That God Has Already Given You Victory
Understanding that the battle is already won in the spiritual realm helps us to fight with confidence. God has given us victory through Jesus Christ, and no weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17).

b) Stand Firm in Faith
Near-Success Syndrome thrives when we lose faith in God’s promises. Hebrews 10:35-36 encourages us to not throw away our confidence, for we will receive what God has promised.

c) Persevere and Never Give Up
Perseverance is key to breaking free from this cycle. Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. We must press forward, knowing that God will give us the strength to overcome.

d) Change Your Mindset and Speak Life
The power of life and death is in the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Speak words of victory, breakthrough, and success, even when it seems like things are falling apart. Your confession will shape your reality.

e) Biblical Example: David’s Confidence Against Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-47)
David’s bold declaration of victory over Goliath is a powerful example of how to speak faith-filled words that destroy the spirit of near-success. Though the odds were against him, David spoke with certainty that the battle was already won.

3. THE POWER OF PREVAILING PRAYER

a) Prayer as a Weapon Against Delay
Prayer is an essential weapon in the battle against near-success syndrome. Jesus taught us to persist in prayer, even when the answer seems delayed (Luke 18:1-8).

b) Prayer to Break Strongholds
The spirit of delay and near-success often operates through strongholds that must be broken in prayer. We need to confront these strongholds through powerful intercession.

c) Prayer of Agreement with Others
Matthew 18:19 tells us that when two or more agree on earth concerning anything they ask, it will be done for them by the Father in heaven. Standing in agreement with other believers in prayer helps to break the spirit of near-success.

d) Prayer to Strengthen Your Faith
Prayer builds our faith and strengthens our resolve. Through prayer, we are empowered to resist the spirit of failure and hold onto God's promises.

e) Biblical Example: Hannah’s Prayer for a Son (1 Samuel 1:9-20)
Hannah’s fervent prayer at the altar, asking God for a son, led to her breakthrough after years of barrenness. Her persistence in prayer turned her near-success into a tangible victory.

4. CULTIVATING A WINNING MINDSET

a) See Beyond the Current Circumstance
To destroy the near-success syndrome, we must train ourselves to look beyond present obstacles and focus on the victory that lies ahead. Romans 8:37 says, "We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us."

b) Develop Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Building resilience is essential to overcoming setbacks. Resilience is developed through trust in God’s faithfulness and remembering that His promises are yes and amen (2 Corinthians 1:20).

c) Embrace the Process of Growth
Growth and development may involve setbacks and delays, but every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger. Trust in God’s process, even when things seem to be going backward.

d) Trust in God’s Timing
Trusting God’s timing is crucial in overcoming near-success syndrome. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that there is a time for everything, and God’s timing is perfect.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph’s Journey to the Palace (Genesis 39:1-23)
Joseph faced multiple setbacks, including being sold into slavery and falsely imprisoned. Yet, God’s timing was perfect, and Joseph’s eventual rise to power in Egypt was the fulfillment of his dreams.

5. WALKING IN DIVINE PURPOSE AND DESTINY

a) Understand Your God-given Purpose
God has a divine purpose for your life, and the enemy works hard to prevent you from fulfilling it. Understanding your purpose gives you the strength to break free from near-success syndrome.

b) Position Yourself for Success
The Word of God instructs us to walk in obedience and faith, positioning ourselves for the success that God has already planned for us.

c) Stay Focused on God’s Promises
Near-Success Syndrome is destroyed when we keep our focus on God’s promises rather than the distractions of the enemy.

d) Keep Moving Forward, No Matter What
The key to breaking near-success syndrome is perseverance. Keep moving forward in faith, trusting that God will bring you to victory.

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul’s Journey (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)
Despite facing hardships, Paul continued to press forward toward his divine purpose, refusing to let setbacks define his journey. He overcame the near-success syndrome by maintaining his focus on God’s calling.

CONCLUSION:
Near-Success Syndrome is a real struggle that many believers face, but it does not have to define our lives. Through the principles of faith, perseverance, prayer, and a winning mindset, we can destroy the spirit of near-success and walk in the fullness of our victory. As we align ourselves with God’s Word, refuse to give up, and stand firm in faith, we will see the manifestation of every promise He has made to us. Your breakthrough is near—don’t stop now.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, I break the cycle of near-success syndrome in my life.

2. I declare that every spirit of delay and frustration is destroyed by the power of God.

3. Lord, help me to see beyond my present circumstances and trust in Your promises.

4. I receive strength to press forward, regardless of the obstacles I face.

5. Father, I stand firm in my faith, knowing that You are faithful to fulfill Your promises.

6. I reject every spirit of discouragement and declare that I will walk in my divine purpose.

7. God, empower me to pray persistently and fervently to overcome every hindrance.

8. I speak life to my dreams and declare that they will come to pass in Jesus' name.

9. Lord, give me the grace to develop resilience and never give up on Your plan for my life.

10. Father, let every setback be turned into a stepping stone toward my breakthrough.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that the cycle of near-success is broken in your life, and you will experience full victory in Jesus' name.

2. Every spirit of delay, discouragement, and frustration is uprooted from your life today.

3. I speak over your life that your breakthrough will not be delayed any longer.

4. As you stand firm in your faith, you will witness the manifestation of God's promises in every area of your life.

5. Every obstacle in your path is cleared, and your success is established in Jesus' name.

6. You will overcome every setback and move forward into divine victory.

7. The Lord will give you the grace to persevere, and you will reap the harvest of your labor.