Devotionals
Defeating Defeat
by Dr. Brenda Robinson
Scripture Reading: John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
For the last two days we’ve studied bitterness and anger. The end result of bitterness and anger is defeat in our Christian walk. We become bitter, angry and defeated because of hurt in our lives. We begin to feel that God no longer cares about our daily woes, and our prayer time becomes less frequent. We want revenge, change and satisfaction in whatever circumstances caused these feelings.
Defeat stems from being self-centered. It is caused by trying to satisfy the flesh and falling into Satan’s deceptions. When we allow ourselves to become defeated, we have lost our faith and trust in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives is quenched by our own feelings. Confusion overtakes us, and giving up seems to be our only alternative.
Satan deceives many Christians into believing the lie that he has won. We have not been defeated just because our expectations have been shattered. Feelings of defeat often come because we wanted our own self-will to be done rather than God’s will, but our plans are not always best for us. When our dreams are shattered, Satan uses the opportunity to convince us of defeat and to rob us of our peace, but we have victory through Jesus. John 16:33 says, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
Jesus Christ has overcome the world. He is our victory. Through Him we have victory in any situation, regardless of the outcome, because He’s already won.
"When we allow ourselves to become defeated, we have lost our faith and trust in Jesus Christ."
- Posted by: Dr. Brenda Robinson
Comments
John 16:33 is one of my absolute favorite Bible verses! Thanks for reminding me of it :)) In a time such as this, I think I have a new saying for me: "Defeating Diva," because with His help I will overcome! And, with the love, support, and advice of my Christian friends and mentor =) I will not forget what you said last night, "God knew what was happening before it ever came to pass. I know it's hard to see ANY positive right now because you are hurt, but you have to start looking for the opportunity in this trial." Whoa. Did God ever speak to me about rejoicing in Him AlWaYs. Although, this is one of the biggest hurts I’ve known and it will not go away overnight, I do not have to be defeated. Reminds me of the part in the song “Master of the Wind.” “An unexpected storm may drive me from the heights, it brings me low, but never brings me down.” So, yes, I may be hurt now, and even a little angry, but I do not have to walk around defeated. I can be of good cheer and rejoice in the God of my salvation!
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