Main Scripture Reference - I Kings 19:1-10
Other Scripture References: John 10:10; II Corinthians 12:7-10; Philippians 4:11-13; Romans 8:2

INTRO–‘This is No Game!’Read John 10:10

Even though this is Super bowl season, where the two best football teams will play against each other yet still shake hands at the end of the game, the competition that goes on between the angels and demons for your heart and mind is not friendly nor will it end with mutual respect. In this battle there are also no time-outs, no penalties or fouls being called for unsportsmanlike conduct, and no halftime entertainment. This battle is for real because Satan is out to destroy you and is looking to blindside you when you least expect it.

• Do you daily keep in mind that Satan is truly out to destroy you? How would recognizing this help you stay more alert?


• Have you ever been completed blind-sided by an issue or problem that you never saw coming?

THE ADVERSARY–‘Be Aware’Read I Kings 19:1-10

In order to continue winning this battle against the forces of evil you must first become much more aware that there is an adversary out there that never takes a break. In fact whether things are going good or bad if you let your guard down for just a moment you give Satan the opportunity to strike. Elijah had just participated in the greatest miracle and demonstration of God’s power in his whole life but in one weak moment was running for his life because of the threat of one evil queen. Instead of continuing to live out of God’s playbook and directions, Elijah all of a sudden, whether through pride or fear, found himself living out of Satan’s playbook and nearly gave up on life itself.

• At what times do you normally let your guard down in life? What about your spiritual life? Why do you think that is?


• Name a play from the enemies’ playbook that you find yourself falling into on a regular basis.

ADVERSITY–‘Inevitable’Read II Corinthians 12:7-10 & Philippians 4:11-13

Secondly you need to keep in mind that adversity in life is inevitable. Living a life free from adversity is not an option, it will happen, but how you respond to adversity is. The truth is both God and Satan use adversity as a tool to bring about a desired objective. Satan uses adversity to try and steal and kill your life, but God uses it to bring you closer to Jesus, to help you grow in your faith, and to make you stronger in building the Kingdom of God on earth. The key to remember is to seek God and God’s will when adversity strikes and then watch as God works to produce great faith in your life and great fruit from your life.

• How is adversity affecting your life right now? Are you seeking God’s direction and victory or are you allowing Satan to use it to harm you?


• How has past adversity brought you closer to God and helped you in your faith? What struggle can you give to God today?

ADVANCING THE KINGDOM–‘Pain Proceeds Victory’Read Romans 8:28

Finally if you will keep in mind that pain precedes progress in life you will be able to stand up to anything that comes your direction. Daily life usually turns on how you handle those seven or eight issues that come up everyday. And if you will become increasingly proactive in living out of God’s playbook and not Satan’s you will not only proceed toward ultimate victory in life, but make a difference in other’s lives around you.

• How are you being pro-active in faithfully living out your everyday battles of life? Are you taking full advantage of each day’s opportunities?


• Have you been a fair weather fan using both God and Satan’s playbook for you life? How can you begin to commit to God’s winning side from now on?