The Victorious Life

“To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” -Revelation 2:7

The successful life is not found simply in the life of seven habits or having a positive outlook on life. Such “successes” may perhaps grant some earthly rewards, but, to the Christian, life is everlasting. Therefore, success and reward must be everlasting.

I find Scripture’s description of our earthly life and success captivating. Our life here is a vapor (James 4:14), is marked with perseverance rather than mere coasting (Hebrews 10:36), and war. Christ gives everlasting life, “which is the paradise of God,” to the one who conquers or overcomes. Jesus’ words to the churches in Revelation each promise reward “to the one who conquers.” This temporary life filled with momentary afflictions is a life of war with sin. The Scripture depicts sin to be put to death with the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:13).

We trust in Christ who overcame and overcomes. Christ disarmed rulers of the kingdom of darkness at the cross and His empty tomb (Colossians 2:15). We are made new creatures in the Spirit who puts to death the works of the flesh. We are not left to our own devices to wage war with the flesh, or remaining sin. We do not simply “shape up” by willpower, but are sanctified received by faith in His power at work in us.

The victorious life of a Christian is one of repentance, His conquering of sin. We do not simply cruise control through life, but are courageously active in our enduring pursuit of Christ-likeness. Know, dear Christian, that such a godly life invites pains and griefs (II Timothy 3:12). You may enter into your heavenly reward with tears, but our Savior will personally wipe away those tears for the last time (Revelation 21:4).

Press on, Christian. Continue walking with His strength. Do not grow weary in doing good. Do not quit. The completed Kingdom is coming with Christ’s return who will complete the work of salvation He began in you (Philippians 1:6). Continue becoming aware of your sinfulness and the war to put sin in you to death. Continue proclaiming His good news to rescue sinners bound to the kingdom of darkness. You will be victorious because Christ is Victor. You will overcome because Christ has overcome.

Heavenly Father, we confess our sins before You. Grant to us forgiveness and power to repent, that power of the Conquering Christ to overcome sin. Continue Your mighty work in us, Lord. Comfort us in our pain. Sanctify us in Your truth. And may our heavenly reward of everlasting life with You press us onward to persevere faithfully by Your glorious might in us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.