Issue 1193 – Victory – July 6, 2023
I remembered a terrible ruckus in our backyard many years ago. I went out to look and was surprised by what I saw.
Genni, the Wonder Dog, was cowering by the back door, and eight or more magpies were squawking at and scolding her. The closest was perhaps two feet away and boldly strutting back and forth.
Not an aggressive dog by nature, Genni was unsure what to do. She was allowing herself to be intimidated by the noise and sheer bravado of the magpies. All the poor dog needed to do was run at one of the birds, and they all would have taken flight. As long as she allowed herself to be intimidated, the birds held the upper hand and knew it.
Sometimes, Christians are like Genni. Surrounded by the harsh noise and ruckus of the world, we sit safely with the four walls and cower. We are brave within those safe walls and talk a good story, but put us out in the world, and our bravado fades.
Ironically, no matter how things look or how intimidating the world seems, Christians are victorious in the long run. In fact, while battles are still to be won, the victory has already happened. The outcome was never in doubt.
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:1-5
We have no need to fear.
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:6-7
We can choose to stand weak and powerless before the squawking of the world, or we can choose to accept the victory given to us and live bold, faith-filled lives of victory, making a difference in a dark and hurting world.
There is an old gospel tune that sings,
Victory is mine,
Victory is mine,
Victory today is mine.
I told Satan to get thee behind,
Victory today is mine.
The LORD has triumphed. Jesus has defeated death. The Spirit proclaims the victory, points us to Christ and indwells us. Let us share that triumph and take His love and light into the world.
Until next time, may you understand that victory is yours and go forth bolding.
Be Blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the glory of God alone)
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
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