The Key to Unbroken Victory

Sermon OverviewScripture Reference: Joshua 7:1God has planned a life of victory for each one of us, yet many Christians live in defeat. They have saved souls and lost lives. Defeat is possible, but not necessary.Joshua 7 reminds us of the pitfalls of defeat we could face and the key to unbroken victory.“But the children of Israel committed a trespass regarding the accursed things, for Achan… of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed things; so the anger of the Lord burned against the children of Israel” (Joshua 7:1).After a huge victory, the Israelites pitched tents outside of a fallen city. In the night, Achan snuck into the city and stole the goods which were dedicated to God. Having taken what belonged to God, he brought a curse upon himself and Israel.This passage first tells us that great victories are often followed by great defeats.Though one man’s sin led to the ultimate downfall, Israel was guilty of plenty. The people’s carelessness and prayerlessness revealed the pride in their hearts. They did not feel the need to pray before heading into battle, presuming God was with them.But it was Achan’s sin of covetousness that caused them to fall, as he confessed himself, “I coveted… I took… I hid…” (see Joshua 7:21).Adrian Rogers says, “Covetousness is an unlawful desire that grows in the soil of an unsatisfied heart.”Second, private sin is never really private.Achan’s sin dishonored God and brought defeat to his brothers. He disgraced his family and brought on the ultimate destruction to his loved ones, as they were stoned and burned with fire.Our “hidden” sins do not just affect us; they affect everyone around us.Third, every sin that we cover, God will uncover.The things done in secret will be shouted from the rooftops. Whether by revelation, confession, or retribution, every sin must be judged.Finally, every sin that we uncover, God will cover.Proverbs 28:13 says, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”Adrian Rogers says, “The key to unbroken victory is not perfection; it is continual, perpetual confession, keeping your heart right where there is no unconfessed sin.”Apply it to your lifeDo you have any unconfessed sin in your heart? Bring it before God and ask for His forgiveness. Don’t live in defeat any longer; live in unbroken victory.