Victory Mindset for the ‘soldier’

For months, I have been reading this book entitled, “Grace Awakening” by one of the great theologians, Charles Swindoll. I have heard that this book has caused great and positive impacts in the lives of most of the readers of this book and I am surely one of them.

This writer of this book has only one word to impart to the minds of the readers and hammer to their hearts– grace. That is not a difficult word to think of, but that’s definitely the word that is running across the pages of this book. Because of that word, I have been reminded of many great truths in God’s Word that I have unconsciously forgotten and reminded once again. One of which is having in mind victory over defeat.

Charles Swindoll says, “How much better to begin each day thinking victory, not defeat.” Those words are like words for the military, but we could also apply it to our daily living.

I bet many of us Christians have gotten out of our beds and felt shame and guilt wrapped on our faces because of the many sins that we have done. I, for one, have been in those situations when I felt that God is so enraged towards me and is ready to strike me with His fist. I just can’t imagine if that were true. Defeat has always infected my mind causing me to be discouraged often times. I had a hard time reminding myself of the truths and promises written on God’s Word. Often times, my view of the cross seems hazy and cloudy. His love not felt and His presence not around. Those were sad moments in my Christian walk and I’m sure many could relate with my experience.

However, the question is why should I remain defeated when the Bible clearly teaches and tells us again and again that victory has already been won when Christ died for our sins and has risen from the grave? Paul has stated in Romans chapter 8 that “we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus!” Ain’t that awesome to just recall that?

When facing a war, every soldier or navy never wakes up with defeat on their minds. That’s crazy. It’s like raising the white flag even without attacking yet. I just couldn’t imagine that if it were true. But the same thing goes for us Christians, we’re told to be sober-minded, be watchful and to stand firm in our faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)

Yes, it’s true that we Christians still sin and stumble at one point or another, but it’s truer still that our sins have already been bought and cleansed by the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. He no longer condemns us of our sins, but He forgives us and empowers us to overcome every temptation. That’s the truth.

What Satan does all the time is to lie. He does that all the time. Isn’t it beautiful if we allow the Truth to stick in our minds so that we could live a victorious Christian life? Because we have been forgiven, redeemed by God and cleansed of our consciences through His blood. We’re able to fight against all these temptations Satan has for us.

If we just allow ourselves to think of victory every morning and all throughout the day, it will totally change everything. Charles Swindoll continues his statement and says, “to awake to grace, not shame; to encounter each temptation with thoughts like, ‘Jesus You are my Lord and Savior. I am Your child – liberated and depending on Your power. Therefore, Christ, this is Your day, to be lived for Your glory. Work through my eyes, my mouth and through my thoughts and actions to carry out Your victory. And, Lord, do that all day long. When I face temptations, I will present myself to You and claim the strength You give to handle it. Sin has no authority over me any long.'”

I hope we all do that. We’re together in this journey. I am learning and I am allowing myself to live my life with victory in my mind, not defeat. God bless everyone!