For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith. 1 John 5:4 ESV

 

Billy Graham once said, “The Bible teaches that faith is the only approach that we have to God. No man has sins forgiven … goes to heaven … has assurance of peace and happiness, until he has faith in Jesus Christ.” Undoubtedly, he actually said a lot more, but this encapsulates the spirit of the Christian life. To live in the world with faith means being connected to the only One who can make sense of it for us, as alongside the beauty of creation and the joy it brings, the spirit of the world challenges us with fear, anxiety and temptation, and trials created by the consequences of sin.

 

How grateful I am that Jesus understands our life and inspires us to accept challenges that make us look beyond ourselves, and our limitations, to lean on Him and overcome at all times. As Christians, we are in God’s family and never walk alone. We know that no-one is spared the reality of life, but however difficult it may get, we can “Cast all [our] anxiety on him because he cares for [us]” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV) and be grateful for His faithfulness.

 

When I scroll down social media, I often find heart-warming, inspiring stories, and encouraging words, but I also notice other stories that focus negatively, with hurting words on people, and life. Limited perceptions reveal a void where faith could be, and with nothing beyond them to believe in, they give no prospect of escaping this loop.

 

But Jesus.

 

By His power we can resist the deceptions and temptations of the devil who “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8, NIV) to lure people away from God.

 

As a child of God, by faith in Jesus Christ, “I have the strength to face all conditions by the power Christ gives me.” (Philippians 4:13, GNT) I can rise above my problems, and don’t need to look for answers in the the world, or in myself, regardless of my qualifications. Paul says, "Whoever believes in him will not be disappointed.” (Romans 10:11. GNT) Why would I not look to Him, our hope in life and death?

 

Loving Jesus means we obey His commands, which connects us to what is good and beautiful in this world. We live to love and honour God and our neighbour, upholding truth and believing that God will bring us through every storm – with scars and blessings – knowing that He is with us regardless of how we feel. Experience has taught us that He loves us as we are, sees us where we are, and is faithful to help us in every situation, as we call on Him.

 

“Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” (1 John 5:5, NIV)

 

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for the victory that I have through You. Establish me in Your love and increase my faith, I pray. Amen