How Have We Won?

We Win.

That was the message one Sunday at church. According to the pastor, Christians have lost their swagger? Considering I didn’t swagger out, he may have a point. How have we won?

I sat through lunch that day deep in thought, deciding I’ll look up ‘victory’ tomorrow in my study Bible. What’s victorious living look like?

• We have “street cred”. It comes from God’s working in your ministry, the ability He gave you to live and proclaim hope and victory in Jesus. (2 Corinthians 3:3-6;9;12)
• We’re assaulted, not broken. God the Holy Spirit indwells and empowers you. We reflect His glory, and have freedom. We overcome evil with good, darkness with light. If we die, we rise in Heaven, a win right there. Every time the church is driven underground, it returns bigger and stronger. (2 Corinthians 3:7-9;17-18)(Romans 12:21)
• We are royalty of the highest order. Say this to yourself: I am the son (or daughter) of God, brother (or sister) of the King of kings. I have been chosen and adopted by God, who gave His Son for me, so He will give me all that I need. No one can condemn me if God justifies me, and my brother Jesus defends me. No thing or person is powerful enough to separate me from God. (Romans 8:31-37)
• The war is won. On the cross, light conquered darkness, even though it looked like it was over. Three days later, Jesus triumphantly rose and defeated death. We still face desperate guerrilla attacks, but take courage and confidence in God, we are more than conquerors. This is now a rescue mission to get the broken and wounded to bring before the Lord. We triumphantly move from place to place, following God in a victory parade. We won without firing a shot, bringing the light through love and caring. (John 16:33)(Romans 8:37-39)

How Have We Won?

Jesus overcame evil and restored the broken relationship mankind had with God. God came for us, rather than us trying to reach God. We were His enemies, yet in the battle He sacrificed Himself for us. For you.

Then He rose again, and rather than collect the spoils or punish, He offered a way to join Him. A way to see eternity and live forevermore. If that’s not a win, I don’t know what is.

Until the day you die, be victorious in Jesus by believing, persevering, remaining faithful, and following him. There is no telling where he’ll lead you, however, you know what the ultimate destination will be.