Conquering Faith
1 John 5:3-5 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (NRSV)
Why does God allow us to go through pain and suffering? Why are you dealing with whatever it is you’re dealing with right now? Shouldn’t things be just that bit easier for those who believe in Jesus?
Perhaps, in this day and age, we’ve lost the true sense of the powerful purpose the deep meaning of suffering in our lives. Suffering is universally part of the human experience. There’s no escaping it.
Rich or poor, oppressed or free, in war or in peace, you will suffer again and again. God, why do you allow this to happen… to me?
I could give you the correct theological answer – that humanity’s sin, beginning with Adam and Eve and that piece of forbidden fruit, is the root cause of it all. Does that help you make sense of your suffering? Probably not. Maybe this will.
1 John 5:3-5 For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (NRSV)
God wants you to experience the victory that Jesus won for you through His suffering on that Cross. He wants your character to be shaped, refined, purified, as you live in obedience to Him amidst the fires of your suffering.
The sweet victory that conquers all in your life is your faith as it grows stronger and stronger.
Who is it that conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
That’s His Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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