I think the hardest part of going through any tribulation or test in life is the uncertainty of the outcome. Its one thing to have to endure these times, but its entirely another thing to not know how everything will turn out. The anxiety and stress can cause us to be lacking hope, or even become depressed.
In a previous devotional we determined, there was nothing that could possibly separate us from the Love of Christ Jesus during these times. Not tribulation. Not distress. Not persecution. Not famine. Not nakedness. Not peril, nor the sword. Nothing!
In simple terms, even if we are having the biggest tests of our life, including our health, or finances, our relationships; if we were being mistreated, or were going hungry; if we didnt have clothes to wear; if there were danger all around or even if our very life were being threatened, it still would not mean that God didnt love us. He does, and He has a plan for each of us.
But now were told that even when we endure these very afflictions; we are More than conquerors!
How is that possible? Well lets first find out what it means to be a conqueror.
1.Somebody who has enjoyed great success in war and has defeated an enemy or enemies
2.Somebody who has beaten an opponent in a contest
So if we were to be conquerors then it would mean we would have victory against all of these things. But a victory would not come until the end of a battle. But God is talking about something much better here. Hes talking about having victory right in the midst of the battle!
Q:So how is a Christian more than a conqueror?
A:It means, as Christians, we now have a greater power to use during these battles, and that power comes from God the Holy Spirit, which now dwells in our hearts.
It means, as Christians, we now have a greater motive to overcome these tests and tribulations, because it brings glory to God when we endure and persevere.
It means as Christians, we have a greater ability to overcome any attack, because we positively know that God is with us; that He has allowed it, and He will defend us. And that everything we go through is shaping us to be conformed to the image of Christ.
It means as Christians, we can overcome any of these tests with a greater love provided from God. And as we share this love with those who persecute us, we will end up converting them with patience.
The Apostle Paul realized that even death wasnt a threat when we had this truth in our hearts. He knew that if we applied this power to our life, then we would transform the world in which we lived. This is what he had to say, knowing this truth.
O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 1Corinthians 15:55, 57, 58 (NKJV)
Hey, I am not saying that our battles will be easy from this point forward. In fact, there will be times in our Christian walk of faith that we feel as though what we are doing doesnt really matter, or make a difference. But we know that our labor is not in vain (1Cor 15:58). And we might even see the enemy apparently getting the upper hand every once in a while. But it is only apparently.
What we need to remember is that there is hope, even in the midst of the battle. Weve conquered our bondage to sin, and death because we are now spiritually alive in Christ. We are victorious even in the midst of every battle, and weve been given power to meet every test or trial that God has allowed.
We now have the hope that we will see Christ face-to-face one day soon. And nothing can separate His love for us. We have a chance to affect the lives of those around us by living as a light unto them. It is our witness of this hope, which will lead them to a loving relationship with Jesus, and to eternal life.
Hey Christian, youre not a victim, so stop living like one. God has a plan, and its perfect. Enjoy your victory.
STUDY QUESTION: Through whom are we more than conquerors according to Romans 8:37?
PERSONAL INVENTORY: Have you been bombarded by fear and doubt in the midst of your trials before, not knowing if you would be alright?
APPLICATION: Know that you are more than a conqueror now when you face your trials in life. Use the power of the Holy Spirit to do all that God has called you to do. Know that He has a plan for every situation. Simply ask Him to lead you through it, and to empower you for everything He has called you to do during it. Now walk in faith-dont just sit there.
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