DEFEAT: Not a word in God's vocabulary for us

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (NIV)

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (KJV)

Defeat is common to all people, yes, even you. It does not make you feel good. Some begin to indulge in the pity-party dance. Others become outraged. And still others push through it and try again for success. What is it about defeat that makes them try again?

Defeat keeps you connected with the realities faced by everyone whether you like it or not. In fact, failing from time to time keeps you humble and dependent on God. Because if you were to win all the time, your character would have no chance to grow in a healthy and spiritual way.

That wrong path could have you become too proud, arrogant, or shallow, and rely only on yourself without regard for the opinions or the help of others. How many of you are guilty including me? The fact is, you must let God help you. Why? He promises to use times of defeat to strengthen your character and keep you humbly dependent on Him. Aren't we supposed to do that anyway?

Song: No Defeat (by Hezekiah Walker)

No more losing, in Jesus I found a blessing
I've got a new life, a new start
A right spirit, a clean heart
No defeat no, I'm going to win
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
(Repeat)

There is victory in Jesus, he gave me the power
I'm more than a conqueror
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
No defeat no, I'm going to win.

And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 3x and then modulate)

And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)

And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)

And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)

And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 4x)

No defeat no, I'm going to win!

How might God give you victory even when you experience defeat?