The Overcomer

Romans 8:35,37 – Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. (NIV)

1 John 4:4 – My dear children, you come from God and belong to God. You have already won a big victory over those false teachers, for the Spirit in you is far stronger than anything in the world. (MSG)

Matthew 11:29 – Wear my yoke — for it fits perfectly — and let me teach you. (TLB)

Tammi, our Sheltie, was already two when she joined our family. Having previously lived in a kennel, she was also incredibly shy. She was so timid, in fact, that she would literally climb up the back of my legs and hide under my jacket if we met another individual or experienced anything unusual.

Something had to be done, and Pepper seemed to be the answer. Gregarious and bold, a waif from the pound, he sparkled with energy and life. I adopted him immediately and then purchased a splitter, which allows two animals to walk on one leash. Soon he and Tammi were yoked together, and day by day, as we set out from the safety of home into the real world, Pepper trotted along, meeting and enjoying or coping with everything which came his way. Tammi simply had to follow, for his strength was greater than hers. And in following, she became an overcomer — a conqueror of the inner fears, insecurities and past experiences which had held her in bondage.

Likewise, when I chose to link my life with Jesus, to allow Him to become my leader and teacher, old things passed away and I became a new creation.

I discovered that His Spirit within me and all around me is greater than anything this world has to offer — so great, in fact, that nothing can separate me from His love. His love has the power to equip me day by day to be an overcomer — a conqueror in the midst of whatever life may bring.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for Jesus — Jesus, whose Spirit is sufficient to empower us to be overcomers amidst whatever tragedies, disappointments, fears, burdens or confusion this world has to offer. Bless those who are weak and suffering. Bless them with faith and strength to come to You that they might be refreshed, revived and renewed in Christ, overcomers now and forever more. In Christ's name and power we ask. Amen.