V-I-C-T-O-R-Y

We live in a world where defeat is lurking around the corner, waiting for an opportunity to pounce.

As a cheerleader in high school, it was my job to spur on the players and spectators by yelling and encouraging everyone to get excited about emerging from the competition as victors. As with most competitive sports, however, victory didn’t always pan out, and the bus ride back home was a long one.

Although we begin each morning with a blank slate of possibilities, we are not always in control of the events we encounter because we share time and space with others. While glorious when I can put my head on the pillow at the end of the day feeling victorious, many times I end the day feeling defeated because of my choices and attitudes.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. This verse is filled with encouraging truth. The writer tells us to hold on unswervingly. When challenges come—and they will—we are to hold on to the hope we profess. Like a boxer in the ring, we should be steady and focused. Our motivation to endure the inevitable blows of hardship is in the assurance, For he who promised is faithful.  God has already won the victory through Jesus Christ on the cross and at the open tomb. Nothing is too difficult for Him.

Now for my favorite part as a cheerleader. I pray until Jesus returns that we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Make your bus ride home joyful, knowing your God is faithful.