Victorious Through Love

January 29, 2008

By Greg Ebie

We have so many things pulling us in so many directions, and it is especially hard for young people. I have been particularly thankful my kids have their heads on straight (most of the time). But I know that didn't happen by chance. God has helped Susie and me to teach our kids. Perhaps the two greatest lessons they have learned are the simplest: [1] God loves you, and [2] Mom and Dad love you.

I feel sorry for people who have not grown up with those two basic yet foundational principles to help them make it through day-to-day living. The confidence you gain from knowing you are loved is immeasurable. Life can unravel fast when you are unsure about being loved. How can we put it back together again; what do we do now?

"I want you also to be smart, making sure every 'good' thing is the real thing. Don't be gullible in regard to smooth-talking evil. Stay alert like this, and before you know it the God of peace will come down on Satan with both feet, stomping him into the dirt. Enjoy the best of Jesus!" (Romans 16:19,20, The Message).

Paul's instruction to the Romans applies to all of us. The NIV puts it this way: "I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil." I've had some experience with sin and deception and have discovered it is easier to walk away from these things when I have the inner assurance I am loved. Love has helped me make some difficult choices, but choices that were the right ones to make because they were good, righteous and godly.

Let me encourage you to let those around you know how much you love them, and reinforce God's unfailing love for them too. Let that be a strong foundation to keep them. And if you find yourself struggling to overcome evil today as well, then know that God dearly loves you.

Enjoy the best of Jesus!

-- D. Greg Ebie is senior pastor of Praise Assembly of God in Garrettsville, Ohio, and an author of Daily Bread devotionals.