Devotional:

Many of us can relate to failure or defeat. When we feel our lives spinning out of control, we find it difficult to believe that God is in control.

The weight of our pain and disappointment make the enemy’s lies more enticing. Instead of leaning toward God, we turn away from God. We blame God and are tempted to walk away from our faith. How can we trust that God is in control of our lives when we are drowning in failure and defeat?

The Bible tells us in Revelation 11 that God sends two witnesses who make an enormous impact on the world. These witnesses are given the power to do mighty works and are committed to telling people about Jesus. Despite their dedication and devotion, they are beaten and left for dead. What went wrong? Absolutely nothing! The Bible says that the bodies of the two witnesses lie dead in the street, but when all hope seemed lost, “they stood upon their feet” (Revelation 11:8-13)!

God is in control. He already knows the outcome, and, throughout the book of Revelation, He tells John what is going to happen each step of the way. So in those moments when life doesn’t make sense, we can walk forward with the confidence that Jesus wins. Which means that in the end, we also will win. As believers in Christ, we may not fully understand why we go through the things we do, but we can be sure that we will always overcome! 1 John 5:4 says, “for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”

Reflect:

• How can trusting God in your circumstance assure you the victory and peace God has promised? (Read 1 Corinthians 15:57, 2 Peter 3:9, Psalm 29:11, and Romans 15:13.)
• What is one way you can build your faith in knowing that God is in control of your life? Have you considered spending devotional time with God?