A Super Formula
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”- Romans 8:37
It’s Superbowl week…a sports fanatics paradise! Are you team Niners or team Chiefs? As the teams take the field on Super Sunday to capture the trophy and dubbed champions of the world, this week is all about strategic game plans and final preparations. As the final hours to kickoff tick down, the coaches will speak about the key to success boiling down to the team’s three primary units winning their battles and working together. For those unfamiliar with football, those three phases are known as offense, defense, and special teams.
When it comes to our faith in Jesus there is a SUPER FORMULA that keeps us ahead in life. 1 John 5:4 tells us, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” Our super formula is not a great running, passing, or kicking game and Super Sunday (or Saturday, Everyday for that matter) is not about the food spread, halftime show, or commercials. No, our super formula are three things that make us whole and move us into the winning position. Here are the three things needed to succeed:
1. The PRESENCE of God- Nothing comes close to the holy and awesome presence of God. His presence fills our lives with fullness and glory. We move forward in faith and full confidence that He is right beside us, deep within us, surrounding and guiding our every step. Psalm 89:15 declares, “Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, Lord.”
2. The PEOPLE of God- Faith was not intended to be lived in isolation but in interdependence. We’re designed to worship God and be in relationship with others. Yes, our faith is a personal confession and grows through spiritual disciplines like prayer, praise, and reading the Bible. But we also need time together at church, in small groups, in one-on-one meet ups, which promote mutual edification and submission. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Paul instructs, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
3. The POWER of God- And the final drive, the thing that takes us over the top is the Spirit! Through His Spirit we receive power to fight off the flesh, take a stand against satan, and be fully equipped and empowered with spiritual gifts so people to encounter the miracle majesty of God. In Zechariah 4:6 the prophet records, “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, ‘says the Lord Almighty.”
The Big Game is here, and your Big Win is already given!