A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 65

Text: Psalm 18

VICTORY OVER EVIL

So many battles are lost that few take the time to rejoice in victory. Triumphs over evil seem so rare that people can scarcely believe that they can overcome evil. But this is exactly what the psalmist David was doing when he wrote this text! Evil can be fought off successfully! God can help us triumph in our spiritual battles against evil.

"You have also given to me the necks of my enemies,
So that I destroyed those who hated me."
Psalm 18:40

1. It is God who gives the victory

How do we beat back evil forces? Only through God! When we involve Him in our battles, He will give us the victory.

2. It is possible to defeat the enemy

It is God who provides the strength. It is God who can help us defeat our enemies! Let us recall what the Apostle Peter once wrote.

"Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil
walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
Resist him, steadfast in the faith…"
1 Peter 5:8-9

James agrees with Peter on this score. He wrote in as confident a tone.

"Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil
and he will flee from you."
James 4:7

Our ultimate enemy is the Devil himself, and he too can be defeated!

GOD WILL NOT HEAR THE CRIES OF THE WICKED

David cried out to the Lord in his battles against evil. But when the wicked are losing and their lives are in danger, would their desperate cries for help be entertained by God? We have an excellent answer to this question in the following text.

"They cried out; but there was none to save;
Even to the LORD, but He did not answer them.
Then I beat them as fine as the dust before the wind;
I cast them out like dirt in the streets."
Psalm 18:41-42

1. God is consistent with Himself

Thank God for being the consistent Being that He is! His face is set against evil. He will not hear the prayers of the unrepentant wicked.

2. Victory is at hand

This note must be borne in mind at all times! It is possible to beat the enemy and cast them out "like dirt in the streets."
How we must take time to be refreshed by this wonderful thought! It is more than possible for us to triumph over the wicked.

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~