Victorious Living
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:17-17 (NIV)
There is something to be said about success this week. Whether we are pleased with the political outcome or discouraged, the bottom line is found in Kingdom authority and our understanding of victory. Sarah Young (Jesus Listens) has a prayer that fits perfectly. Perhaps this should be the prayer of all politicians.
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Dear Jesus,
Help me to lead a victorious life by living in deep dependence on You. I used to associate victory with success—not falling or stumbling, not making mistakes. But being successful in my own strength made me vulnerable to going my own way, forgetting about You. It is through problems and failure, weakness and need, that I’m learning to rely on You.
I realize that true dependence is not simply asking You to bless what I have decided to do. It involves coming to You with an open mind and heart—inviting You to plant Your desires within me.
Sometimes You instill a dream in me that seems far beyond my reach. I know that my own resources are inadequate for attaining such a goal. Thus begins my journey of profound dependence on You. It’s a faith-walk, taken one step at a time, leaning on You for strength and guidance. This is not a path of continual success but a way of multiple failures. However, each failure is followed by a growth spurt—nourished by increasing reliance on You. I want to enjoy the blessedness of a victorious life by deepening my dependence on You.
For we live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13