Submission by Joyner Briceño | www.joynerbriceno.org

 

Every believer in Christ uses faith to defend themselves from the attacks of the enemy—and rightly so. We must learn how to use the shield of faith to quench the enemy’s assaults. But I find that the majority of believers live in a constant state of defense. Much of this stems from the belief that our lives are supposed to be hard all the time—that suffering is necessary and normal in Christian living. They believe we are to embrace suffering because God is most glorified, and we become more glorious through it.

But this mindset only opens the door to misery and, at its worst, can be deadly.

Yes, God uses every negative circumstance for our good—whether it’s strengthening our character, sharpening our faith, or cultivating virtue. However, normal Christian life should not be one of constant suffering and coping, but of reigning in life and living as an overcomer. That’s not to say there won’t be struggles or battles to face here on earth. We can rejoice in our sufferings—not for them, and certainly not embrace them. That’s foolish!

Jesus came to bring us life to the full—so full that nonbelievers, upon seeing how blessed we are, would desire what (or rather who) we have: Jesus. But what glory does it bring Christ when a nonbeliever sees a war-torn believer living a life full of hardships and trials, claiming that God wills it? None.

In the Word, “good days” is plural (1 Peter 3:10), while “the evil day” is singular (Ephesians 6:13). If you’re reading this, know that this year can mark the beginning of many good days—your best days are still ahead.

Rather than living resigned to suffering and praying for hardship in hopes that good may come, the Lord wants you to receive everything His Son died to give you—by faith, through a spiritual rest. This is good news, especially for those currently walking through a valley, trial, or time of suffering. Get ready—because you won’t remain there for long. The Lord Himself is fighting for you like never before.

Deuteronomy 3:22
“You must not fear them, for the Lord your God Himself fights for you.”

We see this clearly in Deuteronomy. God gave the Israelites “more land to possess,” but they had to go on the offense to take it—just like Joshua and Caleb. This requires a shift from passive spiritual mediocrity to the bold, overcoming faith of the New Covenant. A faith that hungers for the glory of God, is determined to live in victory and purpose, and presses in to receive everything Christ has already secured through His finished work—all for the honor of His name.

So, let’s start to dream again, lift our hopes, and take steady steps toward the desires and plans God has placed in our hearts. Make decisions, set goals, and move forward. Take initiative. Risk as the Spirit leads from within. Execute with faith. He wants to increase, prosper, and fulfill you more than you want it for yourself—so don’t fear.

Deuteronomy 3:18
“Then I commanded you at that time, saying, ‘The Lord your God has given you this land to possess…’”

What if I told you God has commanded a specific blessing with your name on it this year? What would you do? Where would you begin? How would you proceed?

Let me point you in the right direction.

Many Christians would start with their performance. They jump on the treadmill of live holier, pray harder, fast longer. I’m not against holiness, prayer, or fasting—but the moment these become tools to earn blessings, gain favor, or stay in God’s “good graces,” then like Moses, you’ll see your blessing from a distance but not enter in. Instead, be like Joshua.

 

Deuteronomy 3:21
“I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the Lord your God has done to these two kings; so will the Lord do to all the kingdoms through which you pass.’”

First, Joshua believed God had already prepared a land flowing with milk and honey—in other words, he believed in a finished work. Whatever the Promised Land was for Joshua under the Old Covenant, God’s grace is for the believer in Christ under the New Covenant. The foundation of entering into God’s rest is believing in Christ’s finished work and resting from your own efforts. This rest is spiritual—it means no longer striving to be forgiven, cleansed, obedient, or righteous through your works.

Second, Joshua believed God would fight for him. He saw “all the Lord had done,” not just with his physical eyes, but with the eyes of his heart. He had unshakable confidence that the Lord would never leave or forsake him. God promised Joshua that every kingdom he passed through would be conquered. That promise gave him boldness—chutzpah.

Likewise, we’ve been promised that we will reign in life if we receive God’s abundant grace and the gift of righteousness through faith in Christ. Unlike Joshua, God is now permanently within us. Our part is to believe and enlarge our hope fearlessly; God’s part is to lead us and fight our battles with guaranteed triumph—as we keep our focus on these truths.

Triumph is ahead of you. The enemy cannot stop it. Your flesh cannot block it. People cannot delay it. You will walk forward with the same boldness and chutzpah as Joshua. Your greatest victory is just ahead.

Keep your eyes fixed on the finished work of Jesus through the Word.