Victory in the Midst of DefeatVictory and defeat sounds contrary one to another but in a way they go hand in hand. The greatest victories we may experience are often found when all is against us and we are in the midst of seemingly insurmountable odds. This is what makes victory so sweet in the hour it is gained when we know it is not in our strength that won the battle but through the Lord. We are told in the Old Testament of the war with Amalek. Moses said to Joshua, choose out men, and go out fight with Amalek: tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in my hand. And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed, and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses' hands were weary of holding up; and two men supported his hands, and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua defeated Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword (Exodus 17:8-13). Had not the rod of God ruled the day the outcome would have been defeat rather than victory over the enemy. Thank God that He watches over His people and also for a loving Savior, that of His Son Jesus Christ. Scripture tells us: Thanks be to God, which always leads us to triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14). The Saving Grace of Jesus ChristThe apostle Paul told of a time that no man stood with him, that all men forsook him. He continued in saying, notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom to whom be glory for ever and ever (2 Timothy 4:16-18).We are, and have always been, living in an hour that our dependence lies only in the saving grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy saying: All that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Evil men and seducers shall grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But continue in the things that you have learned and have been assured of; that from a child you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation through faith that is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:11-15). Moments of Agony Turned Into VictoryThe ever-dwelling presence of a heavenly Father is through His only begotten Son Jesus Christ. Jesus died that we might have life and have it more abundantly. Moments of agony would become a victorious time when He arose from the grave on the third day.One does not have to take a defeatist attitude when troubles and trials present themselves. Jesus, as the Lord of your life, is able to calm the storms in your life. He desires to bring peace and quiet in your life if you place your faith and trust in Him!
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