Sermon Central
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That Insult Must Be Over
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on May 27, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Reproach is real, and many suffer its sting in silence—but it is not the final chapter. God is the Judge who lifts one and puts down another. When He decides to honour a man, no one can stop Him.
THAT INSULT MUST BE OVER
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Samuel 1:6-7
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 54:4, Zephaniah 3:18-20, Joel 2:25-27, Psalm 126:1-3, Luke 1:24-25
INTRODUCTION:
Life can sometimes expose individuals to seasons of humiliation, mockery, and shame. These experiences, often caused by delay, affliction, or lack, become labels used by others to define and insult us. Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1 is a vivid example. She was mocked continually by her rival, Peninnah, because of her barrenness. Yet, her situation was not permanent—God stepped in, and the insult came to an end.
When God arises, every reproach is rolled away. He specialises in rewriting stories and lifting those who have been bowed by shame. Just like He remembered Hannah, He is still in the business of silencing mockery and giving His people a testimony that silences their accusers.
Today’s message declares: That insult must be over! Whether it's from delayed blessings, personal failures, or public shame, God is set to overturn your reproach and replace it with honour.
1. REPROACH IS A TOOL OF THE ENEMY
a) Reproach attacks your identity (1 Samuel 1:6):
Hannah was constantly provoked and belittled because of her condition.
b) Reproach discourages and isolates (Psalm 69:19-20):
Shame and mockery cause deep emotional wounds and loneliness.
c) Reproach delays progress (Isaiah 54:4):
Fear of shame can paralyse people from moving forward.
d) Reproach questions God’s faithfulness (Joel 2:17):
It causes people to ask, “Where is your God?”
Biblical Example: The Israelites were mocked while in captivity, but God brought them out with glory (Psalm 126:1-3).
2. GOD HAS THE POWER TO REMOVE EVERY INSULT
a) God sees your affliction (Exodus 3:7):
He is not blind to your tears or the ridicule you face.
b) God is a restorer of dignity (Zephaniah 3:18-20):
He gathers the outcast and gives them praise and fame.
c) God remembers in due time (Genesis 30:22):
He remembered Rachel and opened her womb.
d) God replaces shame with joy (Isaiah 61:7):
Instead of shame, you will have double honour.
Biblical Example: God visited Elizabeth and took away her reproach among people (Luke 1:24-25).
3. PRAYER IS A WEAPON AGAINST REPROACH
a) Prayer provokes divine intervention (1 Samuel 1:10-11):
Hannah poured out her soul before the Lord and He responded.
b) Persistent prayer wears out mockery (Luke 18:7):
God answers those who cry to Him day and night.
c) Honest prayer releases emotional burden (Philippians 4:6-7):
Through prayer, peace replaces anxiety and shame.
d) Prophetic prayer breaks limitations (James 5:16):
The effectual, fervent prayer of the righteous avails much.
Biblical Example: Jabez prayed and God turned his shame into honour (1 Chronicles 4:9-10).
4. YOUR TESTIMONY WILL SILENCE YOUR MOCKERS
a) Divine answers bring public celebration (1 Samuel 2:1-2):
Hannah’s song testified to God's turnaround power.
b) God turns ridicule into amazement (Acts 3:9-10):
What people used to laugh at becomes what they admire.
c) God uses your testimony to glorify Himself (John 9:3):
What seemed like shame becomes a platform for God's glory.
d) God makes your enemies your witnesses (Psalm 23:5):
He prepares a table in the presence of those who mocked you.
Biblical Example: Sarah said, “God has made me laugh, and all who hear will laugh with me” (Genesis 21:6-7).
CONCLUSION:
Reproach is real, and many suffer its sting in silence—but it is not the final chapter. God is the Judge who lifts one and puts down another. When He decides to honour a man, no one can stop Him. Just like Hannah, Elizabeth, and Sarah, your day of remembrance will come.
You must not surrender to the shame. Continue to pray, trust, and walk in faith. Your story is about to change, and those who mocked you will celebrate with you. That insult must be over—in Jesus’ name!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, roll away every reproach and insult from my life.
2. Father, silence every mocker in my family and destiny.
3. I break every yoke of shame and stagnation over my life.
4. O Lord, remember me today and answer me speedily.
5. Turn my secret tears into public testimonies.
6. Let my enemies become witnesses of my rising.
7. Every voice speaking shame over my life, be silenced.
8. Restore my honour, my name, and my dignity.
9. Father, give me a testimony that will surprise my mockers.
10. Let the joy of answered prayers fill my heart and home.
