More Than Conquerors!

"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit." Rom. 8:1
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Rom 8:38-39

The first verse and the last verses of Romans chapter 8 kind of say the same thing: Once you become a child of God/an heir with Jesus Christ/a member of His family, you are His son or daughter. Your DNA becomes linked with Jesus' DNA. When we enter into a relationship with Jesus and maintain that relationship, just as you would a family member, then we should fear none of those things that frighten those in the world or who walk in the ways of the world.



Are you living out your life "in Christ?" Then there is "no condemnation." That is a significant promise! I think I forget that sometimes. I often condemn myself for lacking certain skills or gifts. There are times I really get down on myself for doing something I shouldn't have done or for not doing something I should have done. Since I know I am in constant spiritual warfare, I get to a point where I realize Satan must be thrilled to have one of God's children swirling the drain in discouragement. Here's a hint, the more I hang out with Jesus (in my mind and every day life) the less likely I will be condeming myself. When I am "in Christ" there is no condemnation. I love it!



Conversely, the scripture goes on to say that "those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh . . " and that this kind of mind is "enmity (hatred) against God." That kind of mind has to continually connive, contrive and stress and work so hard at living in this world. Because as you continue to walk in the flesh the more flesh Satan takes from you. This world, as it is presently, belongs to Satan. It goes without saying that being a friend of this world is being a friend of Satan.



The only way to walk confidently without a care of this world is to walk "according to the Spirit . . . the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus." In doing so, you can become "more than a conqueror," as it tells us toward the end of Romans chapter 8. Why does Paul call us "more than conquerors?" Because the battle is done. Imagine going into a fight knowing before it even begins that you have won it. That's what life in Christ is like. This world is nothing compared life in Jesus Christ. When you follow the ways of the flesh (this world), the end of the road is an eternity in misery. Not only that, but every day is a dog-eat-dog battle in this world. In this world, there are no rules for trust, integrity, compassion, mercy or grace.

Every good and perfect thing is of God. The end of the road in a life devoted to Jesus Christ is not just good; it is beyond anything wonderful you can imagine. Think of the best thing ever, then go way past that. You can't!

Live your life as a conqueror. Live your life as the best friend of Jesus Christ.

Sal