Opening Words: Gratitude and Reflection
Truly honored to share the word of God this morning with the family. It’s always a blessing to hear from others, whether it’s from the pulpit, Zoom, or the congregation. God always provides a fresh, timely word that edifies the body and glorifies the Lord. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my gift, just as we all have gifts, to be used by God.

Thankful for the testimonies and praise reports shared so far. Gratitude is essential—not just for what we have, but for who God is and the eternal relationship we share as His beloved children.

Prayer of Thanksgiving
God, we thank You for this time together and this family of believers. Teach us to be more like You, to decrease so You may increase. Thank You for Your faithfulness, unconditional love, and new mercies every morning. Bless this message, and may it glorify You while blessing those in need of healing or encouragement. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Personal Connection: Gladiator and Strategy
Recently, I watched Gladiator 2 and reflected on the history of war—not because I like war, but I’m fascinated by the strategy and tactics involved. It reminded me of how the right strategy can overcome stronger enemies, much like the children of Israel in Exodus 17.

Challenge to the Congregation
Before we delve into the passage, I have a challenge: keep your arms raised throughout the sermon, symbolizing Moses in Exodus 17. This physical act can serve as a reminder of God’s goodness and the strength He provides in our battles.

Scripture Reading: Exodus 17:8-16
This passage recounts Israel’s battle against the Amalekites. Moses, standing on the hill, held up the rod of God, symbolizing God’s power and presence. When his arms grew heavy, Aaron and Hur supported him, ensuring the rod stayed lifted. The Israelites prevailed as long as the rod was raised. Moses later named the place Jehovah-Nissi, “The Lord is My Banner.”

Historical Context: The Amalekites

• Familiar Adversaries: Descendants of Esau, they were relatives of Israel. Sometimes, the greatest hurt comes from those closest to us.
• Recurring Enemies: They were not fully dealt with as God commanded, becoming a persistent threat. This mirrors how unresolved issues in our lives resurface until completely surrendered to God.
• Strategic Attackers: They struck when Israel’s faith wavered, teaching us the enemy attacks at our weakest moments.

Lessons from Warfare: Spiritual Strategy

1. Know Your Enemy: Like lions, the enemy waits for moments of distraction or weakness to strike.
2. Stay Vigilant: 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to be sober and vigilant because the adversary prowls like a roaring lion.
3. Focus on the Banner: In battle, soldiers look to their banner for guidance and morale. For us, the Lord is our banner (Jehovah-Nissi).

Spiritual Insights: The Battle Belongs to God

• 2 Chronicles 20:15: The battle is not ours but God’s.
• Ephesians 6:12: We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces.
• Hebrews 12:2: Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

Encouragement to the Soldiers
As soldiers in the Lord’s army, our victory comes from focusing on Jehovah-Nissi. When we are tempted to fixate on our problems, we must shift our gaze to the banner of the Lord, trusting Him to secure the victory.

Closing Words
God bless everyone who has kept their arms raised as a symbolic act of faith and trust in God’s power. Remember, as long as we focus on our banner—Jesus—we are guaranteed victory in every battle we face.