Anyone who has participated in sports knows the power of a word of encouragement or an inspiring “pep talk” from a trusted coach! At its best it is based upon the coach’s knowledge of the competitors and belief in their abilities, will, training and resources! It can cause a doubtful, weary, and struggling competitor who is ready to give up, to reach deep, draw on hidden resources and become an “OVERCOMER” – a victor!
That word “OVERCOMER” popped into my mind during my Bible reading today… as did the scene of a coach giving a “pep talk” that leads to inspired effort and victory! The “coach?” – Apostle John? The team members? Weary, doubting, intimidated Christians in the 1st century (and also to us facing some of the same challenges today)!…
Here’s some of what “Coach John” had to say to them (and I might add – what he’d say to us, inspired as he was by the Holy Spirit)
“You are from God … and you have conquered them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world!”
“Everyone who has been born of God conquers the world! This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith!”
“Who is the one who conquers the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”
“The one who believes in the Son of God has this testimony within himself!”
“This is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life in in His Son. The one who has the Son has life.” (From 1 John 4:1-13 CSB)
I mean, I can almost hear John speaking to us now… “Hey, I know the pressure to give in and give up is great! Don’t do it! You can overcome the temptation and trials you are facing in the world! Jesus lives within you! He has given you eternal life! His Spirit will empower you! Listen to His voice within encouraging you! Com’on, BE AN OVERCOMER!”
Coffee With The Lord 