Throughout the Bible we are told to be strong and of good courage! As we understand our struggle with temptation and the battle that rages within the heart of every person, we are reminded that we must be strong in our desire to follow the truth. Paul was confident that his ultimate victory over sin in his body was through Jesus Christ when he writes in 1 Corinthians 15:57 “But thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” As we yield our lives to the Spirit of God, we will be strengthened by His strength. God provides spiritual strength as we exert discipline and self-control rather than yielding to the world, the flesh and the devil. The problem with many believers is that they are unwilling to pay the price of discipline. To be great at something we always have to sacrifice some of the pleasures of the world. Every athlete understands that it is hard work and sacrifice that enables them to excel in their sport. Their reward is set before them as the prize of winning. As followers of Jesus Christ we need to press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Don’t give up, God has a prize waiting for those who stand firm in their faith!
