Ever notice how society paints us into two categories?  You are either a winner or a loser.

As a parent I see this illustrated often in the world of youth sports.  Hollianne and I spend quite a bit of time at fields or courts watching our children compete in a variety of activities.  The thrill of seeing them push themselves and improve is often diminished by the actions of other kids- but more often their parents.

It extends into our work lives too.  Office competitiveness often takes the place of teamwork and collaboration.  People need to “win” in order to succeed at a task- and in the process you will have to lose.  It might be taking sole credit for an idea or a project’s success, or it might be something more devious- as belittling a colleague behind their back to make themselves look better.

I win.  You lose.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

We are fortunate to have a presence in our lives that has leveled the playing field for us.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.  John 16:33

We can take comfort that Jesus came to earth and achieved victory over this world.  Sin and worldly strife are all around us in our daily lives, but we have peace and comfort through the One who has the ultimate power over darkness.

One of my favorite visuals in the Bible comes from Deuteronomy:

When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people and shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.  Deuteronomy 20:1-4

Can you imagine how the Israelites  must have felt upon hearing these words?  Do not fear- the Lord your God is with you….and will give you victory.