1 John 5:4 “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”
God’s people had endured years of slavery and ten horrific plagues before packing their bags for the Promised Land. But as the Israelites stood on the banks of the roaring sea wedged between mountains and water, there appeared no signs for deliverance. All hope was lost. To make matters worse, an Egyptian army set on revenge quickly approached. It didn’t feel like victory.
Years passed and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego stood erect while the nation around them bowed to honor King Nebuchadnezzar. The three young men were well aware their refusal to show reverence to the king would demand their life. So as these men of God stood shackled before a roaring fire, it didn’t feel like victory.
Many years later, Jesus was arrested, tortured, and hung on the cross. Despite His claims of deity, the self-proclaimed Son of God lay dead. All hope for a Savior had vanished. Followers made their way to His tomb seeking a dead body. The very burial spices they carried proved it didn’t feel like victory.
But our God is a God who never fails. It seems their impending victories were all momentarily disguised as defeat. In a twist of plot that only God can write, the mighty waters of the Red Sea miraculously parted for the Israelites to enter their promised land. The three young men of God emerged unharmed by the flames and ready to serve the Great I AM. And the tomb proved no match for the Son of God who rose to breathe life again.
Our lives right now may scream of hopelessness. Defeat may be anticipated as we contemplate the challenges of our family dynamics, our job, our marriage, our children, and our future. But, is it possible, as we remain faithful to God, our impending victory is momentarily being disguised as defeat?
Just perhaps, like the Israelites, victory awaits us as the Lord promises to fight on our behalf. And, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, remaining faithful to God regardless of the anticipated outcome, can bring us through all sorts of trials. And may we never forget, Jesus was indeed who He declared Himself to be: our Savior! His victory over death will allow us to be victorious with Him forever.
Sisters, stand firm today. The God who never fails will not fail us. That feeling of defeat is momentarily a disguise for our victory in Christ that lies ahead.
Father God, may we never take our eyes off the victory that you offer us through your Son.
Blessings of Victory,
Rita Cochrane