How should we respond when God delivers victory in our spiritual battles? Recognize the Victor “Judges 20:35 – ‘The LORD struck down Benjamin before Israel…’” • The text puts all emphasis on “the LORD.” Israel fought, but God won the battle. • Psalm 20:7 reminds us, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • First response: consciously place the spotlight on Him, not on our strategy, perseverance, or gifts. Respond with Praise and Thanksgiving • Exodus 15:1–2 – Moses and Israel immediately sang to the LORD after the Red Sea victory. • Psalm 118:14 – “The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” Practical ways: – Speak or sing aloud what God has done. – Thank Him specifically for the details of the victory. – Use corporate worship to magnify His name together. Mark the Moment • 1 Samuel 7:12 – Samuel set up a stone and called it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” • Joshua 4:6–7 – the memorial stones at the Jordan became a lasting testimony. Ideas: – Journal the story. – Create a simple physical reminder (a marked date in a Bible margin, a small stone on a shelf) so future generations know what God did. – Revisit those markers when new trials arise. Guard Against Pride and Forgetfulness • Deuteronomy 8:10–14 warns that after victory it is easy to forget the LORD and exalt self. • James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Safeguards: – Continually confess dependence on Him. – Attribute success to His grace in conversations. – Keep short accounts with God through ongoing repentance. Stay Ready for the Next Battle • Ephesians 6:10–18 – spiritual armor stays on; warfare is ongoing. • 1 Peter 5:8 – the enemy prowls even after a win. Maintain vigilance by: – Daily prayer and Scripture intake. – Fellowship and accountability. – Quick obedience to any fresh marching orders from the Commander. Share the Story to Strengthen Others • Revelation 12:11 – believers “overcame … by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” • Psalm 40:10 – “I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart; I have declared Your faithfulness and salvation.” Ways to testify: – Tell family, friends, small groups exactly how God delivered. – Use social or written media to record His faithfulness. – Turn each retelling into an invitation for others to trust Him. Live in the Overflow of Victory • 1 Corinthians 15:57 – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” • Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Victory is not an end; it is fuel for: – Deepened worship. – Bold witness. – Persistent holiness. – Unshakeable assurance that the One who granted today’s triumph will finish His good work in us. |