JANUARY 2026:

Be brave - I have defeated the world! (JOHN 16 v. 33)

Seeing all the bad things that are happening in the world today and how wickedness seems to be taking over, we can sometimes feel despondent and overwhelmed as we face the beginning of another year. So, let's take a minute to dig into what Jesus meant when He said 'I have defeated the world.'

First of all, nothing that has happened - or will happen - is a surprise to our Alpha and Omega - the Bible makes that clear. But, as we begin 2026, I believe the Lord wants to reinforce in our thinking not just who He is, but who we are in Him. Paul the apostle put it this way in Ephesians 2 v. 6:

'And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.'

Here are five advantages we have due to the fact that the One who has already defeated the world lives within us:

1. By leaning into Him, we are more able to see every situation through His eyes – His perspective (Ephesians 1 v. 18, Psalm 119 v. 18, Proverbs 3 vv. 5-6)

2. We have authority to overcome the enemy – including sickness – in the Name of Jesus (Mark 16 v. 18)

3. We can hold on to peace in a way that passes all understanding (Philippians 4 v. 7)

4. We are assured that everything will work together for good (Romans 8 v. 28)

5. Last but certainly not least is that at the end of our time on earth, we get to spend eternity with God – our glorious Saviour!

So face this year with confidence. When you use God's Word as your Sword, and have Jesus Christ living within you, you really do wear that victorious Crown!

Be blessed

-Elaine.