25/04/2026
What is Victory?
“If anyone does God’s will, he will know whether my teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority.” (John 7:17)
Most people want victory, but most people seek it in the wrong places. Jesus said, if we concentrate on doing what he taught, we shall know if his promises are true: they will come to pass in our lives. It’s “seeking first the kingdom of God.” It’s obedience and victory flows from that.
But people often seek fulfillment by other means, like some kind of persona, or by a kind of spiritual power of themselves, which they cultivate through “great spiritual works.” Our victory is in none of these things. They may impress man. When we learn how to gather a crowd, the dynamics of “church growth”, the world calls that victory.
But this isn’t what the scriptures mean by our victory in Christ. Victory is in none of these things.
Victory is in Jesus, in his cross and resurrection, in his promises, in holding fast to these and trusting in him, no matter the circumstance. Victory isn’t in ourselves. It is granted by his faithfulness.
In the early church, many tried to build victory on strange doctrines, on works of the flesh (though they called them spiritual exploits), and appealing to the mind and emotions of man. But Paul was strong on this matter, probably stronger on this than on any other matter.
Victory was in Christ, not in ourselves or in any talent we claim before the people to have. We may convince the people for a while, but that isn’t God’s ministry. Don’t look for success in your method, in copying others, but in adhering only to Jesus.
Peter walked on the water, so long as he looked at Jesus. This was original. Peter wasn’t copying anyone else. It was authentic. It was genuine relationship with his Master. “Looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith.”
Jesus authored his faith in you without your help. As you look to him and not to yourself, he will complete his work in and through you. It’s his work in you that is your victory, not “dead works” that we substitute for real faith and obedience.
