He is our Defender, our Righteousness, our Savior, our Lord.
Revelation paints a beautiful picture of the final battle that will bring an end to our Accuser, the Satan (see chapter 20), as he is cast into the lake of burning sulfur.
However it wasn't until recently that I was made aware that this beautiful victory is also made possible by the testimony of the Saints.
Look with me in Revelation 12:10-12
"And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, 'Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them!...'"(emphasis mine)
I think this helps to explain my need to hear the stories of faith, endurance, suffering, and victory in the lives of my fellow Christian brothers and sisters.
Once upon a time, this might have felt "optional" to me.
Looking back, I think I always categorized my church as "helpful."
As a child, I was faithful to attend a local church (and I have my parents to thank for that!). As a college student, single professional, and as a married adult, I have consistantly sought out the local church, attending on a weekly basis, becoming a member, and serving alongside the saints.
But it hasn't been until recently that I have determined in my spirit--in my core--that this is not just "helpful" to me as a Christian to be a part of the body of Christ. No, I now understand that it is ESSENTIAL.
And now, I have more Scripture to help me understand this biblical truth.
You see, I need your story.
It does not merely "help" me in my journey of faith.
It does not merely "encourage" me.
No, friend. It is an essential part of the victory of Light over Dark, Good over Evil, the Kingdom of God over the Kingdom of Satan.
I NEED to hear your story, your testimony, all the ways in which you currently see God move in your life...all the ways you have seen God move in your life.
I NEED to hear your story, teenager.
I NEED to hear your story, college student.
I NEED to hear your story, professional single.
I NEED to hear your story, young mother of three.
I NEED to hear your story, empty-nester.
I NEED to hear your story, octogenarian.
I NEED to hear your story! And thank you for sharing it with me, trusting it with me...and I hope you can benefit from mine, dear friend.
May we NEVER forget that the testimony of the saints helps to conquer our Accuser...and may we forever stand in the victory of the Lamb!
Risa, I love this and am so grateful for your post today! I was encouraged just this morning by the opportunity to share with another believer what The Lord is doing in my life and hear her testimony of His faithfulness as well. What a joy it is to talk about The Lord, especially with a fellow believer (helping me fix my gaze and thoughts on our Savior)! Thank you for sharing His Word and your testimony!
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