Victory in Jesus

By Bill Glover

"How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ our Lord!"
1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT

Many of us would like a preview of the New Year. Some of us even consult Psychics to hopefully get some answers. We are eager to know what will take place in our lives during the coming days. Is a happy experience or relationship coming our way? We are anxious about the possibility of misfortune, tragedy, or even death befalling us, especially since 9/11. We struggle with conflicting, negative thoughts and behaviors in our lives that are contrary to who we are in Christ. We hope for some relief, will this be the year we find it? I believe it is the loving wisdom of God that grants us but one day at a time. We don't know what the future holds and we can't control our circumstances. However, as Christians, we can start making some new habits this year that will help us realize what the Apostle Paul means by the word "victory" in the preceding Scripture verse.

The Apostle Paul knew the meaning of victory even in the face of overwhelming tribulation. Not many of us have been called to suffer for the cause of Christ like Paul. Paul entered into the fellowship of Christ and His sufferings like few of us Americanized Christians will ever know. Though he passed through many unbelievable trials and tribulations, he was not discouraged. Though he was persecuted, beaten, jailed, and even faced death, he rejoiced that he was counted worthy to suffer for the name of Christ. Though he endured hunger, he nourished himself on the bread from Heaven, the Word of God. When he found himself naked, he recognized he was clothed in the Righteousness of Christ and further protected himself with a garment of praise. When he was in danger of losing his life, he knew that Christ had purchased eternal life for him. When he was in prison, he could rejoice in the freedom from sin that Christ had bought for him on the cross. Whatever experience came to him, he considered himself more than a conqueror through Christ. In Romans, verse 37, Paul writes, "No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loves us." (Please read Romans 8: 31-39)

Paul had a true perception of reality and who he was "in Christ". He realized he was chosen and called. He had accepted God's gift of salvation and the divine call and purpose for his life. He knew he was significant in Christ because of this calling. Therefore, he knew he was safe and secure in God's hands. He realized that Jesus was his constant companion and friend. He knew God was on his side, so who or what could ever be against him! He was convinced that he could never be separated from God's love! Paul knew He could cast all his cares on Jesus because God cared for him. Therefore, he did not allow himself to give in to and be overcome by discouragement or depression.

Like Paul, we too can be convinced of these truths and walk in God's love, grace, protection and provision; praising Him through every circumstance we find ourselves in If we will make it our priority this year to spend time with God and His Word, we can put our faith and hope in God's care for us and take ownership of the many awesome promises we will find. We can come to understand that true security in life is based on God's unshakable love for us. The love God has for us is not merely an emotion. It is a matter of historical record. The Bible tells us that God proved His love for us by sending His Son to suffer and die - just for you and me. So, why should He hold back on any lesser gift or promise? We can learn to say with Paul, "We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Love in Jesus,

Bill Glover

< < < Back