Victory always ultimately belongs to the Lord. Throughout the Old Testament, we see numerous examples of victories brought by God to those who honor Him. For every Christian, ultimate victory – the victory over sin, death and the devil – came through Christ alone. We already have that victory.
Victory within our individual lives comes from inside and shows outwardly in how we live our lives. Once we have ultimate victory through Christ and the freedom that comes with it, how do we then live victorious lives? How can we live lives that make being a Christian attractive? (Titus 2:10)
Victory isn’t necessarily about winning the race or game, but it does involve running “in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24). In other words, it involves running your best race.
Victory is actually defined as winning the mastery in battle over odds or difficulties. With this perspective, let’s look at some of the elements that better enable us to be victorious from the inside in a way that is lived on the outside.
- Persistence: Simply refuse to give up. (Romans 2:7)
- Knowledge: Don’t be handicapped by ignorance. (Proverbs 2:10-11)
- Wisdom: Add understanding to any knowledge if you want to have wisdom. (Proverbs 4:7)
- Growth: Never underestimate the power of incremental growth (i.e., small steps) over time. (2 Peter 3:18)
- Action: Pray, make a decision, and move forward. (Proverbs 16:9)
Real, lasting victory in any area is only possible through God’s Holy Spirit working in and through an individual. True victory cannot be obtained by human power alone. Yet, God does ask us to step out in faith and follow the path to victory.
@Vaderalman
Hi Kari,
I was thinking perhaps 1. reflection to judge how we are doing in order to make corrections, 2. gather examples to follow, and 3. Encouragement.. Might need to seek it at times or hope someone steps in and gives it. could be considered. I totally agree with the power of incremental growth.
Kari Scare
Terrific thoughts! Encouragement is a big deal, for sure. I didn't have much external encouragement for so long that I forget about it sometimes. Recently, though, that has changed quite a bit. Incremental growth is key. Progressive sanctification!
@Vaderalman
I think the power of praise is awesome. I do not know why we do not seek to do it more for the ones we love.
Kari Scare
I agree! My youngest is especially motivated by it, but I think everyone is to a great extent. I think we need to get better at both receiving and giving praise.
@Vaderalman
You are an encouragement with how hard you work on your blog(s) and how responsive you are to everyone!
Kari Scare
Thank you, Mark. I appreciate the encouraging word!
@Vaderalman
You are breaking your own records today with how fast you are responding!! You don't have to post this comment!! 🙂
tnealtarver
Kari, it's good to jump over to your place and see what's going on over here at Struggle to Victory. The last few days I've been prompted to get serious about my 2nd website and to acquire knowledge in how things work. Now I'm in know-more-and-be-wise-enough-to-apply-it mode. Good word from you today.
Kari Scare
Always good to have you too! Thanks for stopping & for encouraging!
Mary Mccauley
Hi Kari, I will follow your post with great interest. I agree with all you listed and the others that were added. My love language requires positive comments to help build my self esteem. If I am working on something I need encouragement to keep persistent whether it is gaining knowledge and following through. Whether it is following God and growing in my faith or learning a new skill and then applying it all these are important. Thanks for sharing your life experiences to help all of us!
Kari Scare
I think everyone needs encouragement, but some of us sure do seemed fueled by it more than others. Something I have been trying to do is to be more encouraging myself assuming that it will bring more encouragement into my life as well, and it is working. God has given us so many avenues to know His love, including encouragement and all else that has been listed here. We are all learning & growing together. That's how God meant for it to happen. No one is an island.
Loren Pinilis
I would add in humility – just because that's so essential to persistence and in really accomplishing things that matter.
Kari Scare
Humility… not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less. Good one, and definitely one that needs added for sure.
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