They did not conquer by their own strength and skill, but by your mighty power and because you smiled upon them and favored them. You are my King and my God. Decree victories for your people. Psalms 44:3-4 TLB
As I thought about the above verse (and writing this post) I began wondering what the heart cry, “Decree victories…” might look like.
I’m thinking, that the actualization of victory looks different to each of us.
Since your histories and struggles are probably as unique as your fingerprints–I’m wondering if our victories are, too.
(That hypothesis at least seems plausible to me.)
“So then, when my heart cries out for VICTORY,” I wondered. “What am I asking God for?”
My biggest battles
I think my biggest battles have always been with myself–inner battles–with seemingly invisible victories.
There may be some visible proof of my victories?
(Or, perhaps not?)
But, the battles?
They are definitely real! For just as the blood, sweat, and tears are real, so are the scars from battles fought, and victories won.
Praising and thanksgiving…
- Singing songs of praise and thanksgiving are my evidence of victories over the deep shadows of depression.
- Going forward in faith (even when I am afraid) tells me I have once again prevailed over fear, insecurity, and my own timidity.
- Speaking well of someone who speaks ill of me? Well, that reminds me that forgiving has triumphed over anger, resentment, and bitterness.
- Seeing my meager offerings of “loaves and fishes” through the eyes of Jesus, rather than the world’s belittling contempt? That assures me God is the ultimate judge of all gifts–and rewards!
- Finally, certain that if I am standing my ground; setting my face like a flint; reflects not my strength–but the One I love and follow; the One who gives me His strength–Jesus Christ. There is victory ahead when I follow Him.
Faith is the victory
Yes, then, when I look at my victories? I realize they are all because of looking to Him and trusting in His faithfulness!
How could I not sing songs of His praise?
I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it’s your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory. 1 Peter 1:6-7 Msg
Though I am only one
God reminds me of what He can do through just ONE person:
Listen to me, all you who are serious about right living
and committed to seeking God.
Ponder the rock from which you were cut,
the quarry from which you were dug.
Yes, ponder Abraham, your father,
and Sarah, who bore you.
Think of it! One solitary man when I called him,
but once I blessed him, he multiplied.
Likewise I, God, will comfort Zion,
comfort all her mounds of ruins.
I’ll transform her dead ground into Eden,
her moonscape into the garden of God,
A place filled with exuberance and laughter,
thankful voices and melodic songs. Isaiah 51:1-3 Msg
This Blessing for you and your family!
With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don’t hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort. 1 Corinthians 15:58 Msg.
Women With Destiny 