Rising Above Fear and Oppression

“And he said to his people, ‘Look, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we; come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and it happen, in the event of war, that they also join our enemies and fight against us, and so go up out of the land.'” – Exodus 1:9-10 (NKJV)

Have you ever faced resistance, not because of what you’ve done, but because of the potential others see in you? That was the story of the Israelites in Egypt. The Egyptians enslaved them out of fear—fear of what they could become. The plan was simple: oppress them, break their spirits, and stop them from realizing their potential. Isn’t that exactly how the enemy works today? He can’t stop God’s purpose for your life, so he distracts, discourages, and tries to get you to stop yourself.

The enemy’s strategy has always been rooted in fear. He sees what God has placed in you—your gifts, your purpose, and your calling—and he trembles at the thought of you stepping into it. But here’s the truth: the devil’s fear of your potential doesn’t define you; God does. Don’t let oppression, discouragement, or setbacks cause you to believe the lie that you’re powerless. You are more than a conqueror through Christ, and this is your year to rise above the lies.

Think about it: the Egyptians’ oppression was meant to crush the Israelites, but it backfired. Exodus 1:12 tells us, “But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew.” The same God who strengthened the Israelites is working in you today. Shake off discouragement, reject the lies of the enemy, and step forward with boldness. You have a purpose that no opposition can cancel.

Now is the time to rise above. Refuse to let fear, discouragement, or hard times derail your destiny. Trust that God is with you, strengthening you and preparing you for what’s ahead. The enemy is terrified of your potential because he knows what God can do through you. Walk boldly into that purpose and watch how God turns every obstacle into a stepping stone for His glory.

PRAYER

Lord, thank you for reminding me of the greatness you have placed within me. I reject every lie of the enemy and choose to rise above fear, discouragement, and oppression. Help me to see myself as you see me and to walk boldly into your purpose for my life. Thank you for your strength, your guidance, and your faithfulness to me.