Psalm 21:1–7
O Lord, the king rejoices in your strength. How great is his joy in the victories you give! (Ps. 21:1)
Our home team is not doing well this year. Injuries have removed its strongest players, leaving it weak and vulnerable. Defeat has become commonplace—even expected. There is sadness in our town. Once proud fans are hanging their heads. There is a longing for the joy that comes with victory, but little hope that it will be realized this season.
Many people experience weakness and defeat in their lives on a regular basis. They have come to expect they will always be victims because they don’t have the strength to overcome the things that knock them down and keep them down. Each defeat leaves them weaker when facing the next challenge.
Among the serendipitous joys of atonement is the daily strength that is appropriated by the indwelling presence of Christ. We come to Jesus seeking forgiveness for our sins and find something more is given to us. When Christ comes into our lives He adds new strength for our struggles. Victories over our circumstances begin to replace the defeats we used to experience. We had forgotten how sweet victory tasted. We are not losers anymore. Joy replaces gloom and doom. A new presence has joined the team and we rejoice in the strength He brings—and the victories He gives.
When faced with a challenge today, trust in the Lord to help you conquer it.
Ken Heer is the author of Ancient Fire (WPH) and has been a pastor and church leader for fifty-two years.
