October 12

Mark 8:22-30; Matthew 16:13-20; Luke 9:18-20; Mark 8:31-9:1; Matthew 16:21-28; Luke 9:21-27; Mark 9:2-13; Matthew 17:1-13; Luke 9:28-36

Imagine playing a game you knew with absolute certainty you would win. No matter the ups and downs that might occur during the game, you would never be anxious; instead, you would have peace and confidence. Jesus tells his disciples (and by extension us) that as followers of him, we are in a game we cannot lose. No matter the struggles, difficulties, or trials we might face, we can know that as the church, “the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). The spiritual warfare that surrounds and involves us has a guaranteed outcome─victory for the church through Jesus.

We do not have to fret or worry because, through Christ, we have overcome. The gates of Hades may seem imposing, but they are futile against the onslaught of God. The gates will fall, its defenses will fail, and Christ will reign over everything. We can have confidence and peace through every circumstance of life knowing Christ is the victorious king. So, take joy and peace in this truth today.

Father God, thank you that Jesus has overcome death, sin, Satan, and the grave. Help me to rest in the confidence and certainty of the victory I have in Jesus. Amen. 

How can the victory you have in Christ transform the way you respond to the trials of life?

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