All the classic stories share the same tension between what is good, versus what is evil. We live in a world were this isn’t just a story in a book or in a good movie, but it is something that plays out every day. The difference between the stories we read in a book and watch on a screen and the real life stories of our lives, is that the stories in a book come to a concise end after a few chapters. When that story ends it brings about a sigh of relief, when against all odds, the good wins out.
What we face doesn’t often end after a few chapters or after 120 minutes of screen time. In the story of one’s life, when good seems like it won’t win, one needs to remember to turn to God, and to trust in His truth from Romans 12:21: “Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
If we try to fight evil with the weapons used against us like fear, anger, hurt, ridicule, or selfishness, we will never win. Our enemy knows that and is thrilled to see us take up his tools. These are not the weapons designed for our hands.
We must remember that each battle is a part of the bigger war. This is a war where the final battle has already been fought and won—on the cross and in the grave. What Satan intended for evil our God transformed into the ultimate good. The story of the death and resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate example of good triumphing over evil. It is “the good news.” Greater is the Spirit who lives inside of you than the enemy who wages war against you.
A key tool to overcome evil with goos if found in James 4:7, which says, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Surrender your will and ways to the Lord and overcome evil with the goodness of a restored relationship with your heavenly Father. Because of the power and authority of the Lord, when you put up a fight with the enemy you will win. He will flee from you. That’s God’s promise for you. You have victory over the enemy in Christ alone because “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).
Galatians 5:1 says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Christ has set you free from bondage to the world. However, you are free to choose who you submit yourself to. Experiencing consistent victory requires you to submit yourself to God and not to the world. You have to wake up and choose to live every day for God. You have to choose to live your life in light of eternity. Make this choice and God will lead you to victory over sin and its destructive effects, and He will equip you to help others to do the same. When you keep your focus on the Lord, you will discover the incredible life He has in store for those “who love God” and “are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28).
Jesus knew we were going to feel overwhelmed by the brokenness around us, which is why He reminded us that He has already overcome the world (John 16:33). But until He returns, we get to represent His kingdom and His ways here on earth, so reflect God’s goodness and His promises in your choices. As you do, He will faithfully show you the unique abilities for good that He’s given you to follow His ways to overcome.
reflections of hope 