Dealing With Attackers

DEALING WITH ATTACKERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 54:17

Supporting Texts: Psalm 35:1-8, Exodus 14:14, 2 Chronicles 20:15, Ephesians 6:12, Romans 12:19

INTRODUCTION

Every believer will face attacks in one form or another. These attacks may come from people, circumstances, or even spiritual forces working against God's purpose in our lives. The enemy's goal is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10), but as children of God, we are not left without divine protection and strategies for victory.

Many times, attacks come when we are making progress in our walk with God or stepping into new levels of breakthrough. The enemy fights hard to resist those who are determined to fulfill God’s purpose. However, the Bible assures us that no weapon formed against us shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). When we stand firm in God’s Word and apply His principles, we will overcome every opposition.

In this sermon, we will explore how to deal with attackers—whether they come as physical enemies, spiritual adversaries, or life challenges. We will see how to rely on God, use His Word as a weapon, and remain steadfast in faith.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE NATURE OF ATTACKS

Before we can effectively deal with attackers, we must understand their nature and source.

a) Attacks can be physical or spiritual (Ephesians 6:12)

The Bible teaches that our real battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. Some attacks manifest through sickness, financial struggles, betrayals, or opposition at work or in ministry.

b) The enemy uses people as instruments of attack (Luke 22:3-4)

Satan entered Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus. Likewise, the enemy can use people around us to discourage or attack us. We must remain prayerful and discerning.

c) Attacks often come in moments of breakthrough (Nehemiah 4:1-3)

When Nehemiah was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, Sanballat and Tobiah opposed him. Attacks come when we are stepping into destiny, but we must not give up.

d) Some attacks are tests allowed by God (Job 1:8-12)

God sometimes allows trials to refine and strengthen us. Job was tested severely, yet he remained faithful and received double for his trouble.

e) Biblical Example: Joseph’s Brothers Attacked Him (Genesis 37:18-28)

Joseph was hated by his brothers, thrown into a pit, and sold into slavery. But God turned the attack into a testimony, making him a ruler in Egypt.

2. RESPONDING TO ATTACKS WITH PRAYER

One of the most powerful ways to deal with attackers is through prayer.

a) Prayer brings divine intervention (2 Chronicles 20:15-17)

When King Jehoshaphat was attacked by a vast army, he prayed, and God fought for him. We must seek God in times of attack.

b) Prayer dismantles satanic plans (Psalm 35:1-8)

David prayed against his enemies, and God frustrated their wicked schemes.

c) Prayer strengthens us for the battle (Luke 22:40-44)

Jesus prayed in Gethsemane before facing the cross. Prayer prepares us to stand strong in trials.

d) Prayer confuses the enemy (Exodus 14:24-25)

When the Egyptians pursued the Israelites, God fought for His people, confusing the enemy.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Prayer Delivered Him (Daniel 6:10-22)

When Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den because of his prayers, God shut the lions’ mouths.

3. WALKING IN DIVINE PROTECTION

As believers, we have divine protection that shields us from enemy attacks.

a) God surrounds us like a shield (Psalm 91:1-4)

Those who dwell in God’s presence enjoy divine covering.

b) Angels are assigned to protect us (Psalm 34:7)

Angels encamp around those who fear God, delivering them from harm.

c) The blood of Jesus is our covering (Revelation 12:11)

We overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.

d) Obedience to God keeps us under His protection (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)

When we obey God, we walk under His divine covering and blessings.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites and the Passover Blood (Exodus 12:13)

The blood of the lamb on their doorposts protected them from the angel of death.

4. LEAVING VENGEANCE TO GOD

We must not take revenge when attacked but allow God to fight for us.

a) Vengeance belongs to God (Romans 12:19)

We should not repay evil for evil but trust God to handle our enemies.

b) Bless those who curse you (Matthew 5:44)

Jesus taught us to pray for those who persecute us.

c) Forgiveness is a weapon against attackers (Luke 23:34)

Jesus forgave those who crucified Him, setting an example for us.

d) God will repay the wicked (Psalm 94:1-3)

He will not let the wicked go unpunished.

e) Biblical Example: David Refused to Kill Saul (1 Samuel 24:6-12)

Even though Saul wanted to kill David, David refused to take revenge.

5. MAINTAINING FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD

Faith in God keeps us strong during attacks.

a) Trusting God gives us peace (Isaiah 26:3)