How can we resist voices that undermine our faith, like in 2 Kings 18:28? The Scene in 2 Kings 18:28 “Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out in a loud voice in Hebrew: ‘Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria!’ ” • A foreign envoy speaks in the people’s own language to sow doubt. • His goal: shift trust from the LORD to human power. Recognize the Strategy Behind Undermining Voices • Flattery or intimidation (v. 19, 23). • Half-truths: “Has any god delivered his land…?” (v. 33). • Questioning leadership: “Do not let Hezekiah deceive you” (v. 29). • Same tactic today—voices that cast doubt on God’s character, promises, or ability. Fortify Your Mind with God’s Word • Scripture is the sword that exposes lies (Ephesians 6:17). • “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Memorize key promises: – Isaiah 41:10; – Psalm 46:1-3; • “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Choose Your Influences Wisely • Psalm 1:1-2 warns against “walking in the counsel of the wicked.” • Limit media, friendships, and teachings that erode confidence in Christ. • Seek fellowship that “stirs up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24). Lean on God’s Proven Track Record • Hezekiah spreads Rabshakeh’s letter before the LORD (2 Kings 19:14-19). • God answers with decisive deliverance (19:35-36). • Recall past personal testimonies of God’s faithfulness; rehearse biblical victories (Exodus 14; Daniel 3, 6). Speak Truth Aloud • Jesus counters Satan’s temptations by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). • Confess aloud who God is and what He has promised. • “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Rest in God’s Ultimate Victory • The enemy’s voice is temporary; God’s word endures forever (1 Peter 1:25). • “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). Key Takeaways – Identify and reject deceptive messages quickly. – Saturate your mind with Scripture. – Surround yourself with faith-building influences. – Recall and proclaim God’s past and promised victories. – Stand firm; the LORD still defends those who trust Him. |