Victory is God’s will for the life of the believer. But sometimes we can find ourselves repeatedly falling into the same sins. As a result, our lives are marked by broken promises to end wrongdoing. We tell the Lord that we yearn to do what’s right, but often our desire wanes when virtue is no longer convenient, pleasurable, or profitable. Many times, believers become angry with God for withholding the victory, but sin is always our choice—not the Lord’s.
When we truly repent of our sins, ask the Lord for His forgiveness, and trust the living Christ to empower us, we create a powerful force against Satan and temptation. We triumph over our failures when we remember that Jesus Christ is the source of our lives, and God assures us that victory will be ours when we lean upon Him.
Part of receiving God’s forgiveness and living victorious is also forgiving yourself. Once God has forgiven you, you have no claim to your past sins, failures, or weaknesses. You are a new creation in Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 5:17). Each time you dwell on your past failures, you are closing your heart and mind to the blessings that God has in store for you. Think instead of the many ways the Father has helped you and blessed you in your life. Any time you find yourself reflecting on past failures, remind yourself that God has delivered you from sin. Then, turn your mind to the positive things that He has done for you, in you, and through you. Start praising Him for His goodness, no longer dwelling on the sin that had you bound.
And that’s the memo by Charles Stanley.
*from YouVersion Bible Plan – Seven Keys to Emotional Wholeness*
