The Seven Powers to Victory
I. The Power of the Blood
II. The Power of the Cross
III. The Power of the Spirit
IV. The Power of Confession
V. The Power of the Word
VI. The Power of Prayer
VII. The Power of Praise
I. The Power of the Blood
In studying the power of the blood, we find that from the very first, God had it in his plan that blood would be that efficacious agent for the sins of man.
“Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them.” (Gen.3:21)
From this verse, we learn that the blood of innocent animals was shed in order to cover the shame and sin of man.
This, undoubtedly, was a decree from God because we read in the very next chapter that Abel offered a blood sacrifice to God.
“And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering.” (Gen.4:4)
Cain in his arrogance and pride thought that his sacrifice of the fruit of the ground would suffice, but this was not in God’s plan. Consequently, his offering was unacceptable to God.
As we read from Genesis to Malachi, the theme of a blood atonement is prominently portrayed. Under the Old Testament economy, the blood of animals merely rolled the punishment of the people’s sins ahead for one year; it never completely absolved their sins. This is why God sent his only-begotten Son to die on Calvary’s cross, so that through his death, we might all receive life.
“For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” (Matt.26:28)
“Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29)
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us…we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son.” (Rom.5:8,10)
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” (Col.1:14)
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.”
(Eph.1:7)
“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness…” (1Pet.2:24)
It is evident from these, and many more verses, that we can now enjoy a right relationship with God. We need no longer to be estranged from our Heavenly Father.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” (Eph.2:8)
This is called the doctrine of Justification. It means that we become justified in the eyes of God because Christ’s innocent blood was shed for our sins. We can receive this justification by asking Jesus to come into our hearts and allowing him to become the Lord of our life. This is the first step in having victory in your Christian walk.
II. The Power of the Cross
Upon becoming Christians, we experience a new birth. God, in his mercy, declares us to be righteous because of the shed blood of his Son.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Cor.5:17)
Although the Blood takes away all our previous sins, we still retain that sin nature or sin principle within our being. This is where the Cross comes into view. The Blood deals with the sins of man, whereas, the Cross deals with the sinner or sin nature of man. It is because of that act of love on Calvary that we can live a victorious life in this sinful world.
“…but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:38)
“And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross , having slain the enmity thereby.” (Eph.2:16)
“And having made peace through the blood of his cross …” (Col.1:20)
“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross .
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” (Col.2:14,15)
Instead of the cross being a symbol of defeat, Jesus caused it to be a sign of victory. It forever will remind Satan that Jesus redeemed mankind through his sacrifice on the cross. Too many times Christians are robbed of this victory because they do not recognize their adversary.
“Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet.5:8)
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Eph.6:12)
Those Christians who do not acknowledge demonic spirits have arbitrarily forfeited that segment of the gospel of deliverance. By denying the activity of demons in today’s society, these same Christians betray their ignorance of many significant portions of Scripture.
The Bible speaks of man as being a tri-partite creature. That is, man is composed of body, soul, and spirit. The body is evidently that fleshly part. The soul can be referred to as the mind or emotions of man. The spirit is that eternal part that was fashioned after the likeness of God. Satan will try to take control of any or all parts of man, so that he may destroy him.
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matt.10:28)
One way that Satan tries to steal our victory is by bringing our sins before us and making us feel guilty. This is why the Bible refers to him as the Accuser of the brethren.
“And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.” (Rev.12:10)
Another way the tempter comes to us is through our thoughts. Oftentimes, we entertain thoughts or ideas that are not pure or wholesome. There must be a conscious resistance to these alien thoughts if we are to have victory.
“…Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)
“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Cor.10:5)
Satan will also try to rob us of our peace of mind and our sanity. But this too has been purchased for us as a result of Calvary. If he can saturate our minds with thoughts of fear, jealousy, envy, lust or some other unwholesome thought, then he has stolen our victory from us. The way we combat this maneuver of Satan is to first of all recognize who originated these thoughts. Obviously, these thoughts do not come from God, but are of Satanic origin. We know from Scripture that it is the will of God for every Christian to have peace of mind and in complete control of his sanity. Anything that would breed turmoil or confusion is the work of Satan and should not be tolerated by a child of God.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Tim.1:7)
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isa.26:3)
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment…” (1 John 4:18)
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace…” (John 16:33)
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be
afraid.” (John 14:27)
It is clearly seen that this peace of mind rightfully belongs to every Christian. But this victory will not be ours if we stand idly by.
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the crossof our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” (Gal.6:14)
Here, the Apostle Paul declares how he can stay alienated from the sins of this world, namely, in the Cross of Jesus Christ. The Father looks at the provision at Calvary, and the sinner becomes sanctified and cleansed. Since Jesus has already paid the price and won the victory over Satan, it is the Father’s will that we, too, should claim this same victory. In order to do this we must daily put our trust in the Cross of Christ. This is the second step to victory .
III. The Power of the Spirit
The Spirit is probably the most neglected power that God has given to man. It is the most neglected because it is the least understood. Christians have a head knowledge that the Spirit of the Risen Christ indwells their heart, but that knowledge very seldom becomes a vibrant reality. It is like a mighty river that has been dammed up and the flood gates never opened
to unleash its unfathomable power. If we could really comprehend that God’s Spirit actually merges into our own human spirit to guide, strengthen, and teach, then we would be spared many unnecessary heartaches.
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever. Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive…” (John 14:16,17)
The Spirit is that still, small voice which acts as the Believer’s conscience. Sometimes you may feel a warmth or a good feeling about a certain situation. If you have asked God’s direction, then, this is probably the Holy Spirit speaking to your heart. A Christian must be aware of that gentle unction of the Spirit, if they are to mature spiritually.
“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” (Gal.5:16)
Even though we are Christians, we still have that fallen nature to contend with. That is why God has given us his Spirit to help us in our daily lives. But there must be a conscious effort on the Believer’s part to follow after the leading of the Spirit.
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” (John 14:23)
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things…” (John 14:26)
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Cor.3:16)
“Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.” (2 Cor.1:22)
“Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit.” (1 Pet.1:2)
Every Christian has resident in their hearts this same Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of Truth which gives light to the Believer’s walk.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith meekness, temperance…” (Gal.5:22,23)
Since God dwells within us, then His nature should naturally be expressed through us. This expression of God’s nature will not be realized until there is a suppression of our own fallen nature. This is accomplished by the Christian consistently yielding to the Spirit’s guidance and not to their own selfish desires. Only then can the true fruit of the Spirit become manifest in a Believer’s life.
“Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.” (Rom.6:12)
“Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Rom.6:16)
In Acts 1:8, Jesus told the disciples that they would receive “power” after the Holy Spirit would come upon them. The Greek word that is translated power in this verse is the word “dunamis”. We get the word dynamite from this same Greek word. Truly, the power (dynamite) of the Spirit can lead Christians to the third step toward a life of victory.
IV. The Power of Confession
This “confession” is not to be confused with the Catholic doctrine of the confessional. Confession is merely faith’s way of expression. The word translated “confess” comes from a Greek word which means “ to say the same thing ”. Jesus practiced this throughout his ministry. Jesus only said that which he had heard the Father say.
“And I know that his commandment is life ever-lasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.” (John 12:50)
Also, I am not referring to the popular, yet erroneous, teaching of the “name it and claim it” segment of Christianity. In studying and listening to the Word of Faith teachers expound on this doctrine, I find that much of it is used to satisfy selfish desires. Some of the televangelists who utilized this errant form of confession actually boasted about their personal jets that they “claimed” (confessed) for their ministry. No, the confession that the Bible teaches is one that edifies, strengthens and encourages the Believer in a closer walk with God. In fact, the very
first step that a Christian takes is that of confession . We find this truth in Rom.10:9,10.
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
Therefore, we see that God has ordained confession to be the cornerstone in our justification .
Likewise, confession is also the foundation of our sanctification.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse (sanctify) us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Not only is confession necessary in maintaining a right vertical relationship (our relationship with God), but confession is critical in keeping our horizontal relationship right (our relationship with our fellow man). Scripture instructs us to “confess your faults one to another” (James 5:16). By sharing our personal shortcomings, others might be encouraged that they are not alone in life’s struggle.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think (confess) on these things.” (Phil.4:8)
Remember, that confession is “saying the same thing”. In order to live a life of victory, we must confess those truths and promises that we find in the Word of God. Consequently, this fourth step to victory actually leads us to the fifth step, namely the power of the Word.
V. The Power of the Word
It has been said that the Bible is God’s love letter to mankind. Certainly we do find in Scripture the unsearchable riches of God’s grace, mercy and love to man. The Bible stands alone of all the books of the world in its uniqueness. It was written over a 1600 year period by over 40 plus authors with all having but one unifying theme. In Eph.6:17, we discover that “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” is the only offensive weapon in our arsenal against the devil. Remember, that in the temptations of Christ, Jesus used the Word of God in his defense and his offense against Satan. It is no accident that the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalms 119, is totally dedicated to God’s Word. The following are just a few passages that describes the benefits of learning and establishing the Word of God in your hearts.
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” (Psa.119:11)
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psa.119:105)
“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.” (Amos 8:11)
“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” (Mark 13:31)
“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom.10:17)
“That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.” (Eph.5:26)
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Tim.3:16)
“The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Heb.4:12)
Satan hates the Bible and all it stands for; because in the Scriptures, we find that one day there will be a judgment in which Satan and his hordes will be eternally sentenced to eternal punishment. For this reason, Satan has through the centuries tried to destroy the Word of God.
Bernard Ramm said, “A thousand times over, the death knell of the Bible has been sounded, the funeral procession formed, the inscription cut on the tombstone, and committal read. But somehow the corpse never stays put.” Voltaire, the noted French infidel who died in 1778, said that in 100 years from his time Christianity would be swept from existence and passed into history. However, fifty years after the death of Voltaire, the Geneva Bible Society bought his printing press and house, in which they produced and stored thousands of Bibles.
VI. The Power of Prayer
Prayer is how man communicates with God. In the third chapter of Genesis, we find God “walking in the garden in the cool of the day”. Undoubtedly, this was a daily occurrence before the fall. God literally took a stroll with his new creation, Adam and Eve, and communed with them and they with him. Regrettably, sin separates us from God. Prayer is that vehicle in which we can again draw nigh unto God. In the Bible, we find that prayer is absolutely necessary in our walk with God.
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” (Eph.6:18)
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Phil.4:6)
“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” (Col.4:2)
“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thess.5:17)
“I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” (1Tim.2:8)
“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availed much.” (James 5:16)
Notice the urgency of prayer in several of the passages quoted above. As a Christian, we become weak and spiritually anemic when we neglect to pray. Prayer helps build our faith. In the Old Testament, the High Priest burned incense in a censer which symbolized the prayers of the people. We see this same symbolism in the book of Revelation.
“And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand.” (Rev.8:3,4)
VII. The Power of Praise
“…And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise ?” (Matt.21:16)
“Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.” (Psa.8:2)
In this passage of Matthew, Jesus quotes a verse from the Psalms, except he changes “ordained strength” to “perfected praise”. He does this because praise actually causes strength . The word “perfected” means “to complete thoroughly”. The word “ordained” means to “found, set, or establish”. Notice, too, the word “still”. This word means to “desist, stop, end an action”. When these two passages are studied together, we can conclude the following:
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God has ordained or established praise so that we can become thoroughly complete.
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By engaging in praise, the Believer becomes strong in order to end or stop the work of the enemy (the devil).
The book of Psalms is the longest book in the Bible. In actuality, the Psalms was Israel’s songbook. They sang praises to their God. Not only in the Psalms, but all through the Scriptures, the theme of praise is prominent. I believe, that before Lucifer rebelled against God, that he had the high privilege of leading all the angels in praise to God. Consequently, when we praise God, I believe it causes confusion and turmoil in the ranks of the demons.
They remember all too well, the joy and peace, they once felt when they praised their Creator before their rebellion.
“The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” (Rev.4:10,11)
Finally, let’s consider the model of prayer that Jesus taught to his disciples. Remember, that this was just a model upon which we should use as a basis of our prayer, and not, just a rote memorization of words to repeat. Noticed that Jesus said, “after this manner”.
“Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” (Matt.6:9-13)
In this model prayer, we see that it begins with praise and ends with praise . Only after we render praise to God, do we make our supplications or petitions made known to Him. After so doing, we end our prayer with praise .
“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” (Psa.42:1)