Built for the Battles

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.”

Matthew 4:1 (ESV)

1. GOD BUILDS YOU IN THE BATTLE BEFORE HE RELEASES YOU INTO YOUR ASSIGNMENT.

“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Matthew 4:4 (ESV)

2. THE WORD YOU STORE IN YOU BEFORE THE BATTLE BECOMES THE SWORD YOU WIELD IN THE BATTLE.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Romans 12:2 (ESV)

3. YOU MAY FALL IN THE BATTLE, BUT YOU WERE BUILT TO GET BACK UP.

“For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.”

Proverbs 24:16 (ESV)

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)

Life Group Questions:

1. What season or battle are you facing right now, and what do you believe God is trying to build in you through it?

2. What Scripture has strengthened or encouraged you during a difficult season, and how did it help you respond differently?

3. What thoughts, attitudes, or lies are keeping you from moving forward in the battle you’re facing?

4. What was your biggest takeaway from this message and why?