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EXODUS 23:27-30

"THE PRINCIPLES OF VICTORY"

Intro: Typical history. Egypt represents         to flesh. Wilderness struggle with the
       flesh. Rom. 7, Gal, 5. Promised land victory over, the conquering of the flesh.

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING GOD'S PRINCIPLES.
        A. One of the problems with our flesh is impatience. 
                1. We want things done instantly.
                        a. Instant success.
                        b. Instant pudding.
                2. As a child of God I would like instant perfection.
        B. Knowing God's principles will keep me from discouragement.
                1. Looking at the whole area of my life-so much to be done to bring me
                   into image of Christ, I don't know where to start.
                2. I am overwhelmed and give up.

II. GOD IS NOT ONLY FOR YOU, HE IS BEFORE YOU.
        A. We somehow feel that God is against us when we fail.
                1. Did you get angry at your baby the first time he stumbled when it was
                   trying to walk?
        B. "I will send My fear before thee and will destroy all the people to whom thou
           shalt come."
                1. I never come to any place in my walk but God has preceded me there.
                        a. He has prepared the place for me.
                        b. He has prepared me for the place.
                2. By the time I arrive the enemy is defeated.
        C. I will send hornets before you, drive out Hittites, etc.
                1. These nations were stronger than they were.
                2. It wasn't their task to drive them out, but to go in and claim
                   the victory.
                3. We sometimes find ourselves in the impossible position of trying to
                   drive the darkness out.

III. TOTAL VICTORY IS NEVER INSTANT.
        A. You do not gain victory over the flesh all at once.
                1. One area at a time. "Little by little."
        B. Common process in my life.
                1. God shows me area where flesh reigns.
                2. I try to drive it out and fail.
                3. I am defeated and cry to God for help.
                4. He helps Me by His grace.
                5. In His name I claim the victory.
                6. The stronghold of the flesh is gone.
                7. I rejoice in His victory.
                8. Some of these steps, the frustrating ones not necessary.
        C. When will the process be complete?
                1. Not until I leave this body.
                        a. We who are in this body do groan. . . 
                        b. "I know in me, i.e., in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing."
                2. The person who disclaims any problems with his flesh has one of the
                   greatest problems of all-spiritual pride.
        D. Don't get discouraged, God is working.