Spiritual Warfare and Prayer (Exodus 17:8-16; 2 Corinthians 10:1-6)
Sermon Summary
Pastor David Yan
12 March 2023
After 400 years Israel was delivered from Egypt. But her trials did not end. She was attacked by Amalek. Christians, you must not think that once you have been delivered your trials end. They don't. You enter warfare.
The enemy came to Israel. The devil—the arch enemy, comes to God's people. He comes to wage war. Do not be ignorant of his devices.
Moses sent men to fight Amalek but he himself retreated to a hilltop to pray. Prayer was Israel’s secret weapon. Moses raised the rod of God to heaven. When the rod was pointed to heaven Israel prevailed. When the rod was lowered Amalek prevailed.
The lifting of the rod was an unusual thing. Sometimes in crisis God does unusual things and he involves his people. Israel must march around Jericho seven times before the walls fell down. David must use his sling and stones to fell the giant Goliath. Ezekiel must speak to dry bones before he speaks to Israel. Supremely, Jesus must die on a cross to secure the salvation of his people.
In spiritual war we have secret weapons at our disposal. The weapons are not carnal but mighty in God (2 Cor.10:4,5). Our weaponry is to pray. Jesus prayed in his temptation. He prayed in Gethsemane. He prayed often on mountains and in gardens. Jesus prayed and he prevailed.
Prayer brings forth the power and authority of God. So when Moses prayed God manifested his power and authority and the Amalekites were defeated.
After victory over Amalek Israel was required to set up a memorial. People are forgetful. Memorials are aids to help us remember. The Lord's Supper was instituted by Jesus for our benefit. Remember Jesus through his institution and not your imagination. He is coming back at an hour you do not expect.
Israel was also required to set up an altar. This speaks of worship. Let us worship the Lord not with animal sacrifices but with the spiritual worship of our hearts and mouths.
Finally note that the spiritual warfare is continual. The Lord would have war with Amalek from generation to generation. Satan prowls around continually. We are in constant battle with him. The war is won when Christ shall come.
Let’s be praying intercessory prayers. They will prevail in our spiritual war.