from Pastors Sermon “Breakthrough from Affliction”
Scripture Reading
Psalm 107:10-16 “Some sat in darkness, in utter darkness, prisoners suffering in iron chains, because they rebelled against God’s commands and despised the plans of the Most High. So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron.”
Study Section 1: Understanding Spiritual Affliction
Key Scripture: Job 1:12
“The Lord said to Satan, ‘Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.’ Then Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.”
Hebrew Word Study: “Affliction” (עני – ani)
The Hebrew word “ani” means to be bowed down, afflicted, or oppressed. It carries the idea of being bent under a heavy burden, suggesting both physical and spiritual pressure designed to break one’s spirit.
Biblical Insight
Job’s account reveals that affliction often has a spiritual dimension beyond physical circumstances. Satan requested permission to test Job, demonstrating that our struggles may be part of a larger spiritual battle. However, notice God’s sovereignty – Satan could only operate within divine boundaries.
Historical Context
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, suffering was often viewed as divine punishment. However, the Bible presents a more complex understanding: while sin can lead to consequences, righteous people like Job also face trials that serve purposes beyond judgment.
Discussion Questions
- How does understanding the spiritual dimension of affliction change your perspective on current struggles?
- What comfort do you find in knowing God sets limits on Satan’s activities?
Study Section 2: The Enemy’s Strategy of Wearing Down
Key Scripture: Daniel 7:25
“He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time, times and half a time.”
Greek Word Study: “Wear Out” (בלא – bela)
This Aramaic word means to wear away gradually, like water eroding stone. It suggests a persistent, methodical attack designed to exhaust and weaken over time.
Biblical Insight
Satan’s strategy often involves gradual erosion rather than sudden destruction. Like the persistent widow in Luke 18, the enemy uses repetition and persistence – but for evil purposes. However, God’s strength is renewed daily (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Cultural Context
Ancient siege warfare involved surrounding a city and gradually wearing down its defenses through persistent pressure. Similarly, spiritual warfare often involves prolonged pressure designed to break our spiritual defenses.
Life Application
- Recognize patterns of repeated attacks in your life
- Don’t be discouraged by ongoing struggles – they may indicate you’re a threat to the enemy’s kingdom
- Draw daily strength from God’s Word and prayer
Study Section 3: Breaking Through Oppression
Key Scripture: Isaiah 61:1-3
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”
Hebrew Word Study: “Liberty” (דרור – deror)
This word originally referred to the release of birds from captivity. It was used for the Year of Jubilee when slaves were freed and debts forgiven. It implies complete liberation and return to original purpose.
Biblical Insight
Jesus quoted this passage in Luke 4:18-19 to announce His mission. The same Spirit that anointed Christ now lives in believers (1 John 4:4), giving us authority to break through spiritual oppression.
Historical Context
The Year of Jubilee occurred every 50 years, providing systematic release from bondage. This principle shows God’s heart for freedom and restoration, which He extends to us spiritually through Christ.
Discussion Questions
- What areas of your life feel “imprisoned” or oppressed?
- How can you apply Christ’s anointing to break through these limitations?
Study Section 4: The Power of Praise in Breakthrough
Key Scripture: Acts 16:25-26
“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.”
Greek Word Study: “Praise” (ὑμνέω – hymneo)
This word means to sing praise or celebrate in song. It implies active, vocal worship that declares God’s character and works, often in the face of contrary circumstances.
Biblical Insight
Paul and Silas didn’t praise God because their circumstances were good – they praised Him despite their circumstances. Their midnight worship became a weapon that literally shook the foundations of their prison.
Cultural Context
Roman prisons were designed to break prisoners’ spirits through darkness, discomfort, and despair. By choosing praise in this environment, Paul and Silas demonstrated supernatural faith that transcended their circumstances.
Life Application
- Praise is not denial of problems but declaration of God’s greater power
- Midnight seasons (darkest times) are often when breakthrough comes
- Our praise can impact others who are watching our response to trials
Practical Application for the Week
Daily Action Steps:
- Monday: Identify one area where you feel spiritually oppressed and pray Isaiah 61:1 over it
- Tuesday: When facing repeated problems, ask God to reveal any spiritual patterns
- Wednesday: Practice praising God for His character during difficult moments
- Thursday: Declare 1 Corinthians 10:13 over current struggles
- Friday: Share your testimony of God’s faithfulness with someone facing similar challenges
- Saturday: Spend time in worship, focusing on breakthrough rather than problems
- Sunday: Thank God for the victories, both seen and unseen, from the week
Memory Verse for the Week:
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Prayer Focus:
Ask God to reveal areas where the enemy is trying to wear you down, and pray for supernatural strength to break through every form of spiritual opposition in your life.
Grand Haven Pentecostals 