In what ways can you "advance against the Arameans" in your personal life? Opening the Window on 2 Kings 13:17 “Open the east window,” he said, and he opened it. Then Elisha said, “Shoot,” and he shot. And Elisha declared, “This is the LORD’s arrow of victory—the arrow of victory over Aram! For you will strike the Arameans in Aphek until you have put an end to them.” Seeing Your Own “Arameans” • Lingering sins that keep resurfacing • Habits that waste time, cloud thinking, or dull affections for Christ • Relationships marked by bitterness or un-forgiveness • Fear, anxiety, or discouragement that paralyzes obedience • Cultural pressures that nudge you toward compromise Ways to Advance Rather Than Retreat • Aim where God points – Elisha told the king exactly where to shoot. Spend daily time in Scripture so the Spirit can aim your thoughts and choices (Psalm 119:105). • Fire the arrow in faith – The king had to release the bowstring. Act promptly on what God shows you—whether that means apologizing, cancelling a subscription, or sharing the gospel (James 1:22). • Keep striking the ground – Elisha rebuked the king for stopping too soon (2 Kings 13:18-19). Persevere in prayer, repentance, and righteous habits until the stronghold crumbles (Galatians 6:9). • Wear your armor daily – “Put on the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-18). Truth, righteousness, gospel readiness, faith, salvation, and the Word guard every advance. • Fight on the right battlefield – “The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). Target thoughts, motives, and desires—not just external behavior. • Rely on guaranteed victory – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). Confidence in Christ’s finished work fuels courageous steps. Living the Victory 1. Identify one “Aramean” God is highlighting today. 2. Find a specific promise in Scripture that speaks to it; write it where you will see it often. 3. Take one concrete action before the day ends that moves you forward. 4. Share your plan with a trusted believer who will pray and ask for progress reports. Encouraging Promises for Every Advance • “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) • “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) • “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” (Romans 16:20) Keep the bow strung, the arrows ready, and the window open. The Lord still grants victory over every modern-day Aramean that stands against His people. |
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