This phrase is odd, right? How can one possibly be victorious after defeat? The answer -- Jesus. Many things seems paradoxical and simply impossible in the scriptures. Consider this verse: “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:25). There are several instances where this is shown in the gospels. Look at this other verse: “Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility.” (Proverbs 18:12). Humility before honor? Really? Look at one more: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:2-3). Joy in trials? What?!
Okay, I’m noticing a trend here. Something undesirable, uncomfortable, and unappealing somehow becomes exactly what was needed in the end. Through many trials and defeats we may ask the question, “why?”. Truth is, we may never know why. But, the better question to ask is, “who?”. Who is with you in the storm? Who stands with you through the trial? Who walks alongside you and empathizes with you? Jesus. He knows what it’s like to be in pain. He knows how it looks to see defeat and rejection. He knows how it feels when the world is filled with pain and hopelessness. And guess what? That didn’t stop Him. He chose to have faith in what God had coming. He chose to hope in God’s promises and provision. Although He faced death on the cross, He rose again and ultimately defeated death itself.
Jesus is the reason we can have hope. Although our world may look bleak and hopeless, there is a God above watching over us, looking out after us. Although we may face pain and defeat, we will not stay in that place. God brings us to victory.
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