UNCOVERING THE SOURCE OF YOUR DEFEAT
By Pastor Ayo-Simeon Agbelusi
Many have fallen into the trap of fighting battles they can’t win, simply because they’re approaching them from the wrong angle. To succeed, you must identify the source of the problem and develop an effective strategy to tackle it. Blindly fighting in any battle without a clear understanding of the enemy or the terrain can lead to defeat. However, with discernment, wisdom, and a well-planned approach, you can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
So they sent men to Shiloh to bring the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, who is enthroned between the cherubim. Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli, were also there with the Ark of the Covenant of God. 1 Samuel 4:4 NLT
“In 1 Samuel 4:1-11, Israel suffered a devastating defeat, losing 4,000 soldiers to their enemies. Misguided, they assumed the absence of the Ark of God was the reason for their loss. In an attempt to rectify the situation, they brought the Ark to the battlefield, accompanied by Eli’s corrupt sons, Hophni and Phinehas.
However, despite the Ark’s presence, Israel was shamefully defeated once again. The Ark, which contained the law, symbolized God’s presence and covenant with His people. Yet, Israel’s leaders and people had become complacent, living in sin and disregarding God’s commands.
The Ark was not a magical talisman that could guarantee victory; rather, it represented the need for obedience to God’s law. How obedient to God’s command are you? Often, the battles we face have spiritual roots rather than physical ones. Until we address the underlying causes of our challenges, we will continue to give our enemies an advantage.
It’s essential to look inwards and examine our own lives. Are we contributing to the problems we’re facing? Are there areas where we need to align ourselves with God’s will? By getting our ways straightened out with God, we invite Him to fight on our behalf. When the Lord is firmly on our side, no power can withstand the breakthroughs He brings.
Pray with me: Father, have mercy on me and deliver me from every besetting sin. Deliver me from everything holding me back from victory and prosperous living. Fight in my battles for me O Lord.
