TRUE HOPE OVERCOMES EXPERIENCE(S)

In this life, we all have a variety of experiences. Sometimes we experience victories. Victories show us what we are capable of. They also give us courage for facing the next challenge that comes our way. Victories make us feel good. But, victories can also lead to pride, when we celebrate what we have accomplished without giving God the credit He deserves. While we can humbly accept recognition when it comes our way, we should be quick to give God the glory, recognizing that, “In [God] we live and move and have our being,” (Act 17:28a ESV) and “... in him all things hold together.” (Col 1:17 ESV)

Other times, we may experience defeat or a crushing blow. At these times, we are tempted to despair. We all know what it feels like to be knocked down. Even Paul knew this feeling: “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Co 4:8-9 ESV) But, that’s where hope in God comes in:

In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." (Joh 16:33 ESV)
For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. (1Jo 5:4 ESV)

Finally, much of life is lived in the daily grind … the normal, ordinary, mundane things of life. It’s neither victory nor defeat, but something in between, and we just keep plodding along. While it may be fairly comfortable, that’s a dangerous place to be, because we can become (or think we are) self-sufficient. If we’re not careful, we can just keep going without giving thought to God. However, Paul reminded us that we must live all of life to God’s glory; “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1Co 10:31 ESV) Or, Like Peter, if we take our eyes off of Christ, we will quickly find ourselves sinking (and experiencing defeat).

Whether you are currently experiencing a time of victory, defeat, or the mundane, it is vital that you maintain perspective and maintain hope. Remember that God is still on His throne, and he cares deeply for you! If you are a born again child of God, remember, He’s got you firmly………………………………In His grip,
Pastor Decker