Encouraging the Faithful at Life Abundant Church

I taught on the “Victory and Hope we have in Christ.” These principles were a great encouragement to both the young and old.

What the victory is NOT:

• It is not a life in which it is impossible to sin, but a life in which victory over sin is possible. The first is unobtainable in this life, but the second is attainable.
• It is not an abnormal life or a life to be enjoyed by just a few, but it is His provision for every Christian.
• It is not a life where there is no temptation, but a life where temptation is overcome – look up.
• It is not a life of outward victory only, but a life of inward and outward victory.
• It is not a fully-grown life where further growth in grace is unnecessary or impossible.
• It is not positive mental attitude, dream, or an emotion nor is it world success or an abundance of wealth/possessions.

What is this victory?

• Victory is found only in the Lord, not is our strength, effort, or desires.
• Victory is seen by looking up. Not looking back, forward or around
• Victory is available in the daily battles and difficulties and available to all by realizing our  maturity and trust / hope.
• Victory is a resolve, courage, commitment, blessings, and an overcoming.
• Victory is a reality filled with hope and is expectant about the future
• Victory is an eternal perspective and sees time / treasure from God’s perspective.
• Victory is empowered by prayer.

Biblical Principles – What?

• Jesus Christ is our source of victory.   Jesus has defeated Satan and death so they no longer have control or authority in our lives. Christ in us (Gal 2:20) is the victory over sin and gives us the power over committing sins. We appropriate this victory through an intimacy and maturity with Christ. 1 Chronicles 29:11-12, Romans 8:37
• Victory is given – it is a gift!    Victory is a gift to be received and not achieved. It is not on the basis of human effort. The only part we play is dying to self and stepping our in faith to receive this gift. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58
• Christ leads us in victory and triumph.  Christ’s leadership in our lives is based on knowing who we are in Christ allowing Him to live in and through us. Victory is in a person not an outcome. 2 Corinthians 2:14
• We participate in the victory.  We are invited to be a part of the victory which reveals to us the part we play in the world and in relationship to other believers. 1 John 5:4, Proverbs  11:14, Proverbs 24:6, 1 Corinthians 9:24, 2 Timothy 2:5
• Victory comes only through surrender.  Only as we give up (lose / surrender) our will that we can enter into or gain what Christ has already made available. Matthew 10:39

BW