I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.  Phil 4:13

As surely as dawn marked this morning’s sky, bad news will move to bombard us before all is said and done on this day. War stories, political scandals, crime waves, economic slumps, terrorist plots, devastating weather, fire storms, and threats of spreading diseases provide a hearty sample. Add to those general “world” struggles our personal battles with health, family and friends, safety, finances, etc. and we’re faced with a real, ongoing fight. What can we hold to that not only protects and comforts us but also gives us courage to fight and prevail?

It’s not a matter of “what” we hold to, but “in whom” we choose to ultimately trust.  Our awesome Father God has provided us with an all day, all night, everlasting love that never fails.  When we arise each morning, our best choice is to attend to the good news of His presence.  That personal sacred relationship and priority equips us with a measure of hope that causes us to wake up, grow up, stand up, and step up as overcomers.

Let’s not cower to the doom and gloom of world news, but let us rather hear and do the uplifting counsel of God. It is simply this, “Love the Lord with all your being and love your neighbor as yourself.” It is our relating to the person of Jesus Christ (God) and His Holy Spirit of truth first that will activate our dose of personal courage and encouragement for others.

Family and friends, isn’t it wonderful to know that when we wake up this week, we’ll be able to transcend the downward pull of the world to fight the good fight for life? This is only because He’s promised us an abundant life and… in Him, we wake up, grow up, stand up, and step up as overcomers!

Have a victorious week!

 Matthew 22:37-39; John 10:10