Living in Faith, Not Fear: Trusting God in the Battle By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
_“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7, KJV)
Introduction
In a world filled with turmoil, uncertainty, and spiritual warfare, believers are called to stand firm in faith, trusting in the Almighty God who is ever-present and victorious. The message delivered in the divine revelation above reminds us that God desires His people to live in faith, not fear, regardless of the circumstances they face. The enemy, in his uncontrollable rage, seeks to destroy the righteous, but God assures us that those who trust in Him will not be overcome. This lesson explores the profound truth that God is our Shepherd, guiding us through the battles of life with His Holy Spirit and divine strategies that lead to victory. It emphasizes the importance of rejecting fear, resisting the accusations of the enemy, and remaining steadfast in the humility and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Through this comprehensive study, we will uncover how believers can walk in confidence, knowing that God’s mercy, miracles, and eternal presence will lead them from glory to glory.
This lesson is a call to rise above the chaos of the world, to reject the lies of the enemy, and to embrace the divine protection and guidance that God provides. By staying under the mind of the Spirit, trusting in God’s eternal promises, and obeying His commands, believers can experience the joy of victory and the peace that surpasses understanding. Let us delve into this teaching, supported by scriptures, to understand how to live victoriously in faith, trusting God in every situation.
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Rejecting Fear and Embracing Faith
The message begins with a clear directive from God: He does not want His people to live in fear but to walk in faith and trust in Him. Fear is a tool of the enemy, designed to paralyze and distract believers from God’s promises. In contrast, faith is the shield that protects us from the fiery darts of the enemy and enables us to stand firm in God’s truth. The enemy’s accusations against God, His Son, His Spirit, and His people are meant to sow doubt and confusion, but God calls us to reject these lies and hold fast to His Word.
_“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” (Ephesians 6:16, KJV)
By embracing faith, we align ourselves with God’s divine plan and purpose. Faith is not blind optimism but a confident trust in the Living God who is sovereign over all circumstances. Even when the battle is intense, God’s presence ensures that we are not alone. He equips us with the strength to overcome fear and stand firm in His promises.
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The Guidance of the Holy Spirit
One of the greatest privileges of the believer is the constant presence of the Holy Spirit, who guides, directs, and instructs us in the way of victory. The Holy Spirit is our divine Counselor, providing wisdom and strategies that surpass human understanding. In the heat of spiritual warfare, when it seems there is no way to win, the Holy Spirit reveals God’s divine plan, leading us to triumph.
_“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:13, KJV)
The Holy Spirit empowers us to navigate life’s challenges with divine insight. Whether facing personal struggles, societal pressures, or spiritual attacks, we can trust the Spirit to lead us in the path of righteousness. By remaining sensitive to His voice and obedient to His promptings, we experience the victory that God has promised.
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God’s Provision for the Righteous
God assures His people that He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly. As our Shepherd, He knows our needs and provides for us through His Spirit. Even in seemingly hopeless situations, God’s provision is abundant, offering mercy, miracles, and guidance to lead us forward. The enemy may attempt to bring us down, but God’s power ensures that we are not defeated.
_“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” (Psalm 23:1-2, KJV)
God’s provision is not limited by the circumstances we face. Whether in the valley of the shadow of death or the heat of battle, He is with us, guiding us with His rod and staff. His angelic host surrounds us, and His Spirit empowers us to walk in victory. By trusting in His provision, we can rest assured that He will meet every need according to His riches in glory.
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The Enemy’s Rage and God’s Victory
The enemy’s rage is described as uncontrollable and bitter, a reaction to his inevitable defeat. The wicked seek to destroy the righteous, but their efforts are futile because God is our protector. The arrows they send are turned back upon them by the shield of faith, and their schemes are thwarted by God’s divine intervention.
_“The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.” (Deuteronomy 28:7, KJV)
God’s victory is assured, and His people are called to stand firm in this truth. The enemy’s chaos and confusion cannot prevail against those who trust in God. Instead, God turns the enemy’s plans against them, causing their camp to descend into disorder. As believers, we must remain steadfast, knowing that God’s hand is mighty to save and deliver.
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Staying Under the Mind of the Spirit
God calls His people to remain under the mind of the Holy Spirit, rejecting the carnal mind that leads to pride and destruction. The humility of following Jesus’ example keeps us safe and aligned with God’s will. By submitting to the Spirit’s guidance, we avoid the pitfalls of worldly wisdom and walk in the path of righteousness.
_“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV)
The mind of the Spirit brings clarity and peace, even in the midst of turmoil. It enables us to discern God’s strategies and avoid the temptations of the enemy. By staying humble and obedient, we position ourselves to receive God’s mercy and miracles, walking in the victory He has prepared for us.
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The Joy of Steadfast Faith
Those who remain steadfast in their faith will experience the joy and strength that come from the Holy Spirit. God does not abandon His people in times of trouble; instead, He invigorates and energizes them to press forward. The sun of righteousness rises with healing in His wings, bringing restoration and hope to those who trust in Him.
_“But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.” (Malachi 4:2, KJV)
This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but flows from the assurance of God’s eternal presence. As we walk in faith, we are taken from glory to glory, experiencing the fullness of God’s promises. The trials we face become opportunities for God to demonstrate His power and faithfulness in our lives.
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Summary
The message of living in faith, not fear, is a powerful reminder that God is with His people in every battle. By rejecting fear and the accusations of the enemy, believers can stand firm in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God’s provision ensures that we lack nothing, and His victory over the enemy is certain. By staying under the mind of the Spirit and remaining steadfast in faith, we experience the joy and strength that come from trusting in the Almighty. The enemy’s rage cannot prevail against those who are covered by God’s protection and guided by His Spirit.
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Conclusion
In these challenging times, God calls His people to live in faith, trusting in His eternal promises and divine strategies. The enemy’s attempts to destroy the righteous are futile, for God is our Shepherd, leading us through every trial with His rod and staff. By rejecting fear, embracing the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and standing firm in faith, we can walk in the victory that God has promised. Let us remain steadfast, knowing that God’s mercy and miracles are available to those who trust in Him.
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Call to Action
Believers are called to actively reject fear and embrace faith in every aspect of their lives. Spend time daily in prayer and the Word, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Refuse to entertain the enemy’s accusations, and instead, declare God’s promises over your life. Surround yourself with fellow believers who will encourage you to stay steadfast in faith. Trust in God’s provision and protection, knowing that He is with you in every battle.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged, for you serve a God who is greater than any challenge you face. The enemy’s rage is no match for the power of the Almighty. As you walk in faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, you will see God’s hand move mightily in your life. Rejoice in the assurance that you are His, and He will lead you from glory to glory.
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Salvation Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that Jesus Christ, Your Son, died on the cross for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask You to forgive me. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus, and be my Savior and Lord. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in Your truth. Thank You for Your love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
