How can we recognize and respond to threats against God's people today? Setting the Scene from Psalm 83:4 “Come,” they say, “let us wipe them out as a nation; may the name of Israel be remembered no more.” Identifying Modern Threats • Hostile ideologies that ridicule or silence biblical truth • Legal or social pressures that punish godly convictions • Cultural narratives that redefine morality contrary to Scripture • Spiritual deception—false teachers, counterfeit gospels, subtle compromises God’s Eternal Perspective on Opposition • Opposition is expected. “If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first.” (John 15:18) • The Lord laughs at the rebellion of nations. “He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord taunts them.” (Psalm 2:4) • No plot can overturn His covenant. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17) Practical Ways to Respond 1. Stay alert • “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.” (1 Peter 5:8) • Discern news, entertainment, and teaching through the lens of Scripture. 2. Armor up daily • “Put on the full armor of God.” (Ephesians 6:11) • Belt of truth—know doctrine; breastplate of righteousness—live it; shield of faith—trust God’s promises; sword of the Spirit—speak the Word. 3. Stand together • Psalm 83 lists a coalition of enemies, yet Israel was called to united worship and war. • Gather faithfully with believers (Hebrews 10:25). Encourage, warn, and strengthen one another. 4. Pray with confidence • The psalmist turns threats into intercession. • Align petitions with God’s revealed will; ask for courage, conviction, and the softening of hostile hearts. 5. Witness without apology • “Always be prepared to give a defense.” (1 Peter 3:15) • Bold love disarms hostility and magnifies Christ. 6. Rest in God’s sovereignty • Jehoshaphat faced allied armies and prayed, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (2 Chronicles 20:12) • The battle is the Lord’s; results belong to Him. Encouragement from God’s Promises • Preservation: “He will not let your foot slip; your Protector will not slumber.” (Psalm 121:3) • Victory: “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) • Endurance: “He who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13) We recognize threats by measuring everything against Scripture, and we respond not with fear, but with watchfulness, unified faith, Spirit-empowered action, and unshakeable trust in the Lord who keeps His people. |
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