I John 5:4 “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”
When the Lord Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, it was because He had met and defeated the enemy. The enemy of all people was sin and death – and Hell awaited everyone because all had sinned (Romans 6:23).
Everyone born into this world after the Fall – except Jesus Christ – is born under the curse. But Jesus got the victory through a sinless life, and then, as the perfect Lamb of God, He was slain for our sin. He rose again – and His resurrection is a symbol of the believer’s new birth and a new enablement that He gives at the moment of salvation. We become “born of God.” It is not by our works, but by the “by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:5). His resurrection is also proof that we also will one day be given a new body and taken to glory.
In the meantime, the same One that empowered the Lord Jesus while He was on earth – the Holy Spirit – now empowers each believer. Every believer, however, must choose to walk in His power (Ephesians 5:18). It will not happen automatically. Jesus lived on earth the same way the believer does today – through faith in God and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Our Bible verse for today says that anyone that is born of God “overcometh the world.” Since you have been saved, can you honestly say that your life since salvation is largely characterized by victory? or is it one of defeat?
My Christian friend, if Christ promised victory then you can be sure that He intends to give it. There are some conditions, though, and these need to be met first. There are three conditions:
- Confess and forsake known sin. Stop playing with it! (I John 1:9)
- Surrender to His will as found in the Bible: Read your Bible daily, go to church faithfully, put away sin, tithe, and witness – for starters.
- Believe His promises and use them – in faith. Expect real victory!
Why not make today the first of many days of victory through Christ? Seek His help in prayer – He is more than willing to give grace and glory!
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