RISING ABOVE THE SHADOWS

RISING ABOVE THE SHADOWS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 91:1-2
"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 60:1-2, John 1:5, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Romans 8:37, Psalm 23:4

INTRODUCTION:
Shadows are often a metaphor for the difficulties, fears, and challenges that loom over our lives. While shadows may represent trials, they should not be mistaken for darkness. As believers, we are called to rise above these shadows and walk in the light of God's glory. Just as a shadow cannot exist without light, our challenges cannot exist without the ever-present power of God. It is time to rise above the shadows of fear, doubt, and discouragement and step into the victory and light that God has prepared for us.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE SHADOWS
Before we can rise above, we must understand the nature of shadows.

a) Shadows Are Real But Temporary
Shadows are a by-product of light; they are present, but they do not last forever.

b) Shadows Do Not Have Substance
A shadow is merely a reflection; it has no power over us unless we allow it.

c) Shadows Can Represent Fear
Many are bound by the shadows of fear, but fear has no place in the life of a believer.

d) Shadows Can Be a Sign of Growth
The larger the light, the greater the shadow. Our challenges can point to areas where God is working in us.

e) Biblical Example:
The Israelites in the wilderness faced shadows of uncertainty, but God’s presence went with them (Exodus 13:21-22).

2. GOD’S LIGHT OVERCOMES THE SHADOWS
The light of God’s presence drives away all shadows.

a) God is Light, and in Him, There Is No Darkness
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." (John 1:5).

b) God’s Presence Disperses All Shadows
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" (Psalm 27:1).

c) The Light of God Gives Us Clarity and Direction
When we walk in God’s light, we are led by His wisdom and grace (Psalm 119:105).

d) Walking in God’s Light Leads to Victory
Even when darkness surrounds, we can rise above it because of the light within us (2 Corinthians 4:6).

e) Biblical Example:
Jesus is the Light of the world, dispelling the darkness of sin and death (John 8:12).

3. THE POWER OF FAITH TO RISE ABOVE THE SHADOWS
Faith empowers us to rise above the shadows of doubt and fear.

a) Faith Transforms Our Perception of the Shadow
The shadow becomes smaller when we focus on the greatness of our God.

b) Faith Connects Us to God’s Unfailing Power
When we walk by faith, we are aligned with God’s will, and nothing can hinder us (Romans 8:37).

c) Faith Declares Victory Over the Shadow
"We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." (Romans 8:37).

d) Faith Looks Beyond the Shadow to the Promise
Shadows may appear large, but faith allows us to see the promises of God that are greater.

e) Biblical Example:
David overcame the shadow of Goliath through faith, declaring victory in the name of the Lord (1 Samuel 17:45-50).

4. THE ROLE OF PRAYER IN RISING ABOVE THE SHADOWS
Prayer is our weapon to rise above the shadows.

a) Prayer Invites God’s Light into Our Circumstances
When we pray, we invite the presence of God to shine on our situation.

b) Prayer Strengthens Us to Overcome
Prayer brings supernatural strength to confront and overcome challenges.

c) Prayer Brings Us Peace in the Midst of Shadows
Even in the most difficult moments, prayer brings God’s peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).

d) Prayer Shifts Our Focus from the Problem to the Solution
Through prayer, we acknowledge that God is bigger than any shadow we may face.

e) Biblical Example:
Daniel prayed in the lion’s den, and God delivered him (Daniel 6:10-23).

5. WALKING IN THE LIGHT OF GOD’S PROMISES
To rise above the shadows, we must live in the light of God’s Word.

a) God’s Promises are Sure and Unshakable
"For all the promises of God in Him are yes, and in Him Amen." (2 Corinthians 1:20).

b) God’s Promises Bring Hope in the Darkness
His promises shine like a beacon, guiding us through any storm or shadow.

c) The Word of God is a Lamp to Our Feet
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105).

d) Trusting in God’s Promises Brings Freedom from Fear
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7).

e) Biblical Example:
The three Hebrew boys, despite the shadow of the fiery furnace, stood firm on God’s promises and were delivered (Daniel 3:16-30).

CONCLUSION:
Though we may face shadows in our lives, they cannot overpower the light of God’s presence. By walking in His light, embracing faith, and standing on His promises, we can rise above the shadows of fear, doubt, and discouragement. Let us walk confidently, knowing that the light of God shines brighter than any darkness that comes against us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, let Your light shine in every dark area of my life.

2. I break free from every shadow of fear and doubt in Jesus' name!

3. Father, empower me to rise above the shadows that seek to overwhelm me.

4. Let Your promises bring light and hope into my situation.

5. I receive divine strength to overcome every shadow in my life.

6. Father, let Your peace surround me in the midst of my challenges.

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

8. Lord, increase my faith to see beyond the shadows.

9. Every shadow of discouragement, I command you to leave in Jesus' name!

10. Father, let Your glory shine in every area of my life!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Every shadow in your life will be dispelled by the light of God’s glory.

2. You are rising above the limitations that have held you back.

3. The darkness of fear and discouragement will not prevail over your life.

4. You shall walk in the light of God’s promises and experience His victory.

5. The Lord will direct your path and bring clarity in every situation.

6. Every shadow of confusion and doubt is being replaced with peace and understanding.

7. You are anointed to shine brightly, even in the darkest places.

8. God will lift you up above every shadow of opposition.

9. You shall experience God’s divine favour in every area of your life.

10. You are more than a conqueror, and no shadow can defeat you.

May you rise above every shadow and walk in the glorious light of God’s presence. In Jesus' name, Amen!