Victory Day Forty-One: Faith is the Victory

For every child of God defeats this evil world,

and we achieve this victory through our faith.

And who can win this battle against the world?

Only those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God.

1 John 5:4-5, NLT

If you recognized this blog title from the old hymn, you probably couldn’t resist humming the chorus - especially since the photos provide the lyrics. It’s been a while since I sang it, but it kept popping into my mind as I prepared for today’s post. The song is old, written in 1891, and the scripture even older, written around the year 98, but both state a timeless truth. Faith in Jesus is what gives us victory over the world.

A familiar song and Bible verse wasn’t enough to nail it down for me though. I had to ponder this and do some digging to grasp the full power of this claim. How does faith, I wondered, do battle for us against the world? And what does it mean to win against the world? Why are we at war?

I found that “the world” refers to spiritual rulers, not earth itself or the people who live here. The spiritual forces of evil that war against God also war against mankind. They’ve been at work since the Garden of Eden trying to take us captive to sin and imprison us in destructive lifestyles. What better way to hurt the Creator than to torture and pervert His beloved children and convince us He either doesn’t exist, or has no power or desire to save us.

Having faith brings us back into right relationship. We can’t get victory over addiction, pornography, same sex attraction, gambling, gossip, stealing, lying, pride, selfishness, greed, ingratitude, or any other worldly passion without faith. Anything else is just legalism and self-help programs. Those can only give a certain degree of success. They might curb our outward behavior, but they cannot change our heart, and that’s where true victory takes place.

We can only get victory when we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and then live our lives accordingly. In other words, stop trying to be our own gods (as if we’ve done such a great job of it), and let Him lead. If we say we believe He is God, but continue to do whatever we want, we deny our own claim. Do we really believe He loves us; that His plan is good; that He knows what’s best for us? If we do, and act on it, our faith will be the victory.

Victory Day Forty: Cross Action

[Jesus] canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.

 In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities.

He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.

Col. 2:14-15, NLT

Whenever you see paintings and sculptures of Jesus on the cross, He appears to be passively hanging there at the mercy of the Roman soldiers, waiting for death. It looks like He’s done for; evil has had its way. He is the epitome of the sacrificial Lamb.

Much of the time, I think we picture ourselves the same way. Our sinful tendencies have us nailed to a cross and we feel helpless to escape them. We try to encourage each other to “hang in there,” but it’s not much of a consolation.

Yet these verses reveal that Jesus was not just the Lamb of sacrifice, but also the Lion of Judah. He was totally in control over the events of that day, actively defeating sin’s power over us for all time. Just look at the action-packed phrases in this passage, He:

·         Cancelled the record of Satan’s charges against mankind

·         Took away any sign of our guilt by nailing it to the cross

·         Disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities

·         Publicly shamed them with His victory over the power of evil

That’s great news for us. When we choose to accept Jesus’ offer of forgiveness, we don’t just “hang in there” until we die, like wimpy victims of the demon hoard. When we died to sin, that choice set certain things in motion. If we have crucified our sin nature with Christ, then we also get to join in the victory He won there for us. The charges against us have been wiped out and Satan has no power over us anymore.

Jesus’ work on the cross provides us with a life of action, empowering us to live not as victims, but as victors.

Victory Day Thirty-Nine: It Takes the Sting Out of Death

“Death is swallowed up in victory.

O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”
For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power.
But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Cor. 15:54-57, NLT

There are two different kinds of funerals: services for people who have lived for God, and for people who have lived for themselves. At the second, a lot is said about the person’s accomplishments, their wealth, their travels, their wild and crazy sports adventures. Some are even philanthropists who have given to others beyond their own small sphere, but somehow it all comes back to honoring them, rather than God.

Everyone tries to be upbeat at these gatherings. Many times people talk about heaven, but it’s a general, wistful, “everyone goes there” tale. It feels hollow, plastic, and dreadfully sad.

On the other hand, funerals for people who had a personal walk with God focus on relationships. A lot is said about their love for God, His Word, their family, and other people, and how their faith affected others. People tell how this person blessed their life. There’s laughter, happy memories, funny stories. The focus is on the heart of the individual and the legacy of love they have left behind.

When I leave funerals like this I’m inspired to live a life that reaches others for Christ. The stories reverberate in my head like a satisfying movie. I know I will miss them, but only for a while. I know I will see them again in heaven, where there are no more goodbyes.

There’s even a wistful jealousy of all they are now enjoying – they are with God, looking at His face, hearing His voice, out of pain, at rest, enjoying delights we can only imagine. That’s how I felt after the funeral of my young friend and her daughter, who died in a car accident a couple years ago. The school auditorium was packed, there wasn’t a dry eye. We were in shock at how suddenly it had happened. And yet, the music, slide show, and testimonies were filled with joy and wonder at the lives they had lived for God. It doesn’t wipe away our grief, but it takes the sting out of death.

Death holds no power over such a life, because what comes next is more glorious than anything we experience here. Those who seek a relationship with Jesus Christ in this life are victors over the fear of what comes after death. They can look beyond the grave to a life with God for which He created us.

In the last year I’ve read two accounts, and heard another man in person who were clinically dead and came back to life on earth. They attempt to describe what they saw and felt by comparing it to what we experience on earth, but admitted it can’t do it justice. They were understandably sad to find themselves back on earth in their mortal bodies, but their stories fill us with wonder and anticipation. They further verify the truth of what the Bible tells us - death has no power over those who are forgiven.

Victory Day Thirty-Eight: Despite All These Things

Despite all these things,

overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.

Rom. 8:37, NLT

In order for victory to be possible, there is the inevitability of war. When Apostle Paul penned this verse he and other Christians were facing opposition and rejection from their own people because of their faith in Christ, and imprisonment, torture, and death from without. People all over the world today are experiencing the same things. Yet, it’s still true that they possess overwhelming victory, because they have Christ.

In comparison, my trials seem so small, yet threaten to take me under. This week our immediate family is dealing with auto immune disease, debilitating back and hip pain, unremitting viruses, financial difficulty, overbooked schedules, doctor and chiropractor visits, chronic insomnia, homelessness, addiction, sibling jealousy, and disappointments.

The last few hours of my overnight trip to visit family in another city ended at the tire center. There I had to spend hundreds of dollars on new tires before I could get home safely. I am feeling overwhelmed by all the things I have promised to do and want to do and feel like I should do. None of these things seem very spiritual when compared to persecution. However, they are battles we can either respond to with trust that God will use it all for good, or anger at Him because of the discomfort and inconvenience.

On my drive home I contemplated this verse. Despite all these things, as followers of the living God, we have overwhelming victory over whatever circumstances war with our faith. We do not have to fear anything this life hands us because Jesus took away their power to destroy our relationship with God. These troubles we deal with are vexing and discouraging and exhausting, but when compared to what we will enjoy for eternity, they are only a breath in time.

That gives me courage to face these things. They will pass. God will carry us through. We will learn from our mistakes and trials, and hopefully, even our responses to them will show the world that we really believe what we say we do.  

Victory Day Thirty-Seven: Tender Mercy for the Crushed and Doubting

A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out,
till he has brought justice through to victory.

In his name the nations will put their hope.

Matt. 12:20-21, NIV

picture by Selaphotography

Dysfunctional, addict, needy, whore, broken-down, abused, abandoned, resistant, unreliable, lost cause. These are just some of the names we might give to people the scripture refers to as bruised reeds and smoldering wicks. Jesus doesn’t give up on people and cast them aside as easily as we do. His compassion for the down and out is so important it was not only predicted in Isaiah 42:3 of the Old Testament, but repeated in Matthew to introduce Jesus as the true Son of God:

“Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight;
I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.”

Matthew 12:18

I’m so glad we serve a God who gives us chance after chance to turn to Him. I’m especially grateful when that tenderness extends to the ones I love and long for so much it aches.  For one reason or another, some people have a harder time accepting Christ’s love than others. He will do whatever it takes to reach them.

We’re surrounded by bruised reeds - people who have been hurt or abused. They have memories and scars that hinder their ability to trust in a faithful, loving God. The smoldering wicks are the ones who want to believe, who start to believe, but then the winds of worldly passion and lies keep the flame from burning bright and true. Jesus understands these frailties and doesn’t give up on them.

One day there will be justice. The unrepentant will get what they wanted – eternal separation from God - the forgiven, will rest forever in the presence of the One they love. In the meantime, God will not turn away anyone who trusts in Him and calls out for forgiveness, no matter how many times they have rejected Him before.

If you’re wondering today if God even wants to rescue you from the mess you have made or the damage that’s been done to you, you can be sure, He does. That’s His idea of the ultimate victory. Now is the time; today is the day, to let Jesus come in and heal the broken places of your life. He will make you clean and new, and stay with you through this life, and into eternity.

Victory Day Thirty-Six: All Eyes Will See

The Lord has demonstrated his holy power before the eyes of all the nations.
All the ends of the earth will see the victory of our God.

Isa. 52:10, NLT

 

My friend reminded me that sometimes it’s a victory just to get out of bed and face the day. Today has been one of those days for me. It may not seem like a triumphant victory to anyone else that I spent time in the Word, exercised at the Y, and dissolved into tears in the arms of a friend. Yet, all three were victories over my inclination to remain alone in my pain, too proud to admit I was distraught with worry. The Lord provided me a friend and prayer warrior who has walked this road before me and she was a great comfort.

I came away with a firmer grip on the truth. Even when I cannot see how God is working - even if my worst fears should come to pass - God is good and merciful and present in the situation, even though I cannot be there for the one I love so dearly.

Maybe that’s the point. Maybe God demonstrates His power before all the nations not just in spectacular and miraculous events, but also through the individual lives of His servants. The fact that we do get up every morning and choose to trust God, even when our emotions run rampant and we feel unproductive and weak. Each step we take is a victory over the lies and discouragement of the enemy.

If you pile up all those little victories happening in the lives of millions of believers all over the world, it adds up to quite a demonstration of God’s mighty power. Through us all the nations will see the victory of our God. Our tenacious faith demonstrates His holy power.

Victory Day Thirty-Five: Victim or Victor?

 I am learning from experience that if I see myself as a helpless victim, powerless in my circumstances, fear and anxiety can take over. Life becomes unmanageable. However, Christ has already defeated the enemy and has come to be with us to equip us for every battle, one by one. They are just obstacles along the way. When fear closes in, trust in our ever-present God is the answer.

“See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid.
The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.”

Isa. 12:2, NLT

Last week our Sunday school lesson was on one of the benefits God intends for all His children – to enjoy His presence. We can’t enjoy His presence unless we first recognize that He literally is with us all the time. As the verse says, God has come to save us. He came in the person of Jesus Christ, and after His resurrection, He sent the person of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, to come live in us. You can’t get any closer than that.  

His presence doesn’t mean we don’t face storms in this life, but knowing He’s there gives us courage to get through them. He will either calm the storm, or calm His child. Trust in Him quiets our spirit and gives us strength. And amazingly, a song springs from our lips. In the pleasure of His presence God gives us victory over two of our worst enemies - fear and doubt. Choosing faith, we sing, until the storm is over.

Victory Day Thirty-Four: Seek Counsel Before Going to War

The wise are mightier than the strong,

    and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger.

So don’t go to war without wise guidance;

    victory depends on having many advisers.

 Prov. 24:5-6, NLT

 

My parents are top on my list of advisors

My husband, full of wisdom and experience



Many wars throughout history could have ended differently if those in command had consulted wise counselors before heading into the fray. They might have reconsidered a few important factors:

• Can we sustain this war as long as necessary?
• Do our troops believe in what we’re doing?      
• Can our weapons compete with the enemy’s
• Are we prepared for the weather and terrain?    
• Is this the right time to attack?    
•  Is this the right place to attack?

 

We know for certain that good will be at war against evil until Jesus returns as King. But there are a lot of variables until then about when, where, and how we should fight. It can get a little confusing sometimes. That’s why God not only instructs us to seek His wisdom for each situation, but also the counsel of godly men and women. When we barrel ahead doing whatever we think is right, we can blunder into situations we’re not prepared to handle, or spend our energy unnecessarily, leaving us too exhausted to face the real threats. Believe me, I know from experience.

My sister and counselor

 

“Two heads are better than one” is true, but only if the other heads have more insight or perspective on the situation than you do. If all they know is what you know, then you’re basically just asking yourself what you want to do and agreeing with yourself about it. Better to choose someone who has more training and experience, more knowledge, an unbiased opinion. Look around for those who have nothing to gain from your decision; those whose greatest desire is to do God’s will, who exude the presence and fruit of the Holy Spirit.  

My sister and counselor

This applies when getting advice about marriage, parenting, addiction recovery, business, investments, friendship, and more. Many of the famous battle blunders throughout history have occurred because of pride. One or more commanders thought they knew how best to win the war and didn’t bother to ask anyone else for input. The results were tragic loss of life, wasted effort and resources, and prolonged war and suffering.



I have a couple “war efforts” on my doorstep right now that I’ve been praying about, but still have no clear direction about what God would have me do. These verses have been the reminder I needed that it’s time to look for godly counselors, prayer warriors, and those experienced in these fields. I am so thankful we do not have to live the Christian life alone; there is help available for those willing to seek it.

Victory Day Thirty-Three: Suit Up for War

The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the Lord.

Prov. 21:31, NLT

Do you ever feel like nothing you do makes a difference in the unseen spiritual war? The victory may belong to the Lord, but we have the essential job of getting our horses ready. What does that mean? I’m glad you asked.

In the Bible, horses represent strength, advantage, wealth, and pageantry. Foot soldiers wielding sticks are not very impressive, but an armored soldier riding horseback, with the banner of his king flowing behind as he rides, stops the opposition in its tracks.

We “prepare our horse” by putting on the armor of God from Ephesians chapter six. Why is it necessary? Two very good reasons (vs. 11-13):

·         so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes

·         so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand

            Verses 14-18 tell us what we need:

1.      The belt of truth holds everything together (vs. 14). If we don’t know the truth, we’ll lose more than just our pants in battle. We will “expose” ourselves to strange beliefs that leave us vulnerable to injury and death.

 

2.      The breastplate of righteousness (vs. 14) protects our heart. If we love anyone or anything more than God, our heart will be unprotected from the arrows of the enemy. God knows only our love for Him can shield us from destructive affections.

 

3.      Proper footgear is also important (vs. 15). We need to be ready to run – not away from battle, but to spread the Good News of peace. Those who surrender to God find release from servitude to a dark and cruel lord. God’s captives become children of His kingdom and heirs to the wealth of heaven. So we need to be ready to run with the news.

 

4.      The shield of faith (vs. 16) is what we use to put out the fiery arrows aimed at the gaps in our armor. Whether it’s intellect, unbridled emotion, physical strength, wealth, or skill we’re counting on, Satan knows every weakness. Only a steadfast faith in God can deflect these arrows and keep us from falling.

 

5.      The last piece of armor is the helmet of salvation (vs. 17). You can’t get very far without a head. A chicken may run around with its head cut off, but it doesn’t know what it’s doing and its destiny is the dinner table. We must decide in our mind whom we will serve. That’s why salvation is essential; without it we will mindlessly run in circles until the enemy cooks us up for dinner.

Did you notice that we get five pieces of armor for protection, but only two for fighting?  But what weapons! Our sword is the Word of God (vs. 17) and prayers led by the Spirit of God (vs. 18) work together to defeat the enemy, both for us and for others. Through them God can bring the victory.

So let’s suit up for battle and ride out with the Lord for victory today. He has given us everything we need to win.

Victory Day Thirty-Two: A Crown for the Humble

For the Lord delights in his people; he crowns the humble with victory.

Psa. 149:4, NLT

God’s way of looking at things certainly is a mind-bender. He says His thoughts are not like our thoughts, nor His ways like our ways. All you have to do is look around and know it’s true.

Think about the world of sports. All this posturing and talking smack is part of the game. You’ve got to rev up your teammates and intimidate the opposition. Not to mention stir up your own courage before going out on the field. Our war heroes are even more confident.

Before riding out to battle, the leader canters back and forth on his war horse waving the banner, or works the men in his army division into a we-can-do-this froth. He encourages the men to fight for their country and families. “We have them now,” he yells. “The enemy can’t defeat us!” If energy alone could win, they’ve got it in the bag.

Yet, God says that He grants victory to the humble. How backward is that? You mean the person who isn’t at all sure of his or her strength to resist temptation is the one who is going to win? The person who doesn’t think they know much is going to have godly wisdom? And the one who is weak and needy is going to be the one with spiritual strength and the riches of heaven? Yep.

Apostle Paul said that when he was weak in himself, he was strong in Christ. It is the admission that we can’t do this on our own that allows God’s power to work through us. When we admit we can’t defeat the enemy of our soul and the sins that drag us down; when we ask for His help, God is free to move, unhindered, in the situation. That’s when victory happens. When we get out of the way.

Then the most amazing thing of all happens - God gives us a crown to wear! A crown that says we’re children of the King, the ruler of all. Not because we have earned it, but just because that’s the way God likes to operate. He likes to reward those who look to Him for help.