Sometimes, I think, we are conditioned to think of victory as overcoming a hardship/challenge when we reach the end of it, and the obstacle of that challenge is removed at last. Inside of us, is a yearning for life to become easier… with less stress, less responsibility, more freedom, more fun, more money, more choices etc. We hold a picture of our ideal life in our minds, striving towards that.
Having grown up in church, the prosperity doctrine – as encouraging as it has been – has caused many to be very self-focused and selfish in many ways… placing their eyes on what they can claim, and what is already theirs. Striving towards the ‘victory’ that is theirs in the area of need. A potential problem with this teaching, is that we consider our visible inheritance as the proof/outworking of our victory, and not the process.
The victory we’ve been given, has been won through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We walk in victory daily. The proof of our victory in our daily lives, is that we can face all things through Christ who strengthens us… there is nothing we cannot face… as He always gives us what we need for what we face. He is our victory in every situation… we need to access His strength for what we need every moment of our day.
I am surrounded by a few women, whom I respect for the way they have lived their lives in this area. Look around you, and learn from those who walk the talk, and live the life of a victorious daughter of God. One who walks through the fire, and doesn’t run away. One who keeps on trusting, when nothing goes her way. One whose words are seasoned with hope, faith and love, speaking truth at all times. One who’s not afraid of hardship and pain, but endures, pushing through, not giving up. One whose countenance is peace and joy, choosing an attitude that is grateful in the midst of her pain.
That is victory.
Phillipians 4:10-13
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
1 Corinthians 10:13
13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
