Introduction

This sermon explores seven principles to help us win the battles we face in life. These principles are based on the story of Jehoshaphat, the king of Israel, who had to confront three enemy nations.

Identify the Enemy

The first principle is to identify our enemy. It may seem obvious, but many people struggle to recognize who or what is truly standing against them. Sometimes, we mistakenly view our family members or others as enemies when they are actually on our side. Often, the real enemy is our own negative attitude or the way we handle a situation. Before we can overcome our battles, we must accurately identify our enemy.

Do Not Be Driven by Emotion

The second principle is not to be driven by emotion. When Jehoshaphat heard about the approaching enemy nations, he was afraid, which is a natural reaction. However, we should not let our emotions control us. Instead, we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.

Take Problems to the Lord

The third principle is to take our problems to the Lord. When Jehoshaphat heard about the enemy nations, he immediately sought the Lord and proclaimed a fast throughout the land. Prayer should be our first response when facing battles in life, not our last resort. We should bring our problems to God and trust in His guidance and provision.

Admit the Need for Help

The fourth principle is to admit that we need help. Jehoshaphat acknowledged his powerlessness and admitted that he did not know what to do. We should follow his example and humbly ask God for help. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Rely on God's Power

The fifth principle is to rely on God's power. After admitting his need for help, Jehoshaphat declared that his eyes were on the Lord. We must shift our focus from our circumstances to God's power and trust that He will fight our battles for us. Apart from God, we can do nothing, but with Him, we can overcome any challenge.

Relax in Faith

The sixth principle is to relax in faith. God assured Jehoshaphat that the battle was not his but God's. We should learn to rest in faith, knowing that God is in control and will work on our behalf. We don't need to strive and exhaust ourselves; instead, we should trust in God's ability to bring victory.

Thank God in Advance

The seventh principle is to thank God in advance for the victory. Jehoshaphat and his people praised God before the battle even began. They understood that a promise from God is a sure thing, so they expressed their gratitude in advance. When we trust in God's promises, we can confidently thank Him for the victory, even before we see it manifest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these seven principles provide a roadmap for winning the battles of life. By identifying our enemy, not being driven by emotion, taking our problems to the Lord, admitting our need for help, relying on God's power, relaxing in faith, and thanking God in advance, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way. Just as Jehoshaphat experienced a bountiful blessing after his victory, we too can expect God's abundant provision when we trust in Him.

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