Would you measure your life as a victorious life? I'm thinking that the average person would say "no," either because they don't know what such a life looks like, or they don't know how to attain it. A truly victorious life has nothing to do with what our society calls success, but, has everything to do with living in a close and obedient fashion to God. Consider this great verse-- 1 John 5:4 "For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith." For just some clarification on the meaning of "the world" think about this. "...all that is opposed to keeping the commandments of God, or draws us off from God, in this world, including our corrupt flesh, on which the world’s blandishments or threats act, as also including Satan, the prince of this world..." JFB We can have victory over all of these possible and likely areas of defeat--according to God. Also, Spurgeon makes clear what "faith" really is. “Look at any Greek lexicon you like, and you will find that the word [faith or believe] does not merely mean to believe, but to trust, to confide in, to commit to, entrust with, and so forth; the very marrow of the meaning of faith is confidence in, reliance upon.” Do you see the victorious living that is possible and essential for those who belong to the Lord? We must trust Him and His ways way above anything this world has to offer. That is why the day before Jesus was crucified He was able to say, "I have overcome the world." Wow!
Did you know there is a Spring Luncheon coming up on April 1st 11 am for all the ladies of the church. You don't want to miss hearing Adria Hanson's story of how she came to the Lord--amazing! Sign up in the foyer this Sunday morning so that we have a good count for the food preparers. Bring a friend.
See you tomorrow morning as we study 1 John 5:1-5.