An Essay About My Belief

When we think of victory, we often envision champions with trophies

or medals. We think of spotlights and TV coverage and fame. We
think of parades and celebrations. But true victory often happens far
away from the crowd.
In Christ, I certainly see joyful times, just as anyone does. But what
truly sets me apart as followers of Jesus is that I can find victory in the
most difficult trials. James knew that type of struggle very well, and yet
he could honestly say: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever
you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of
your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work
so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
(James 1:2–4). Christ gives me the strength to not only endure the
tough times, but also to grow in them. I’ am not meant to just slog
through the pain; I’ am meant to see my faith blossom right in the face
of my battles. God equips me with the armor I need to stand firm:
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil
comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have
done everything, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13). That’s the kind of
strength Jesus gives to me.
If there’s ever a fight that goes on in us humans, it’s the constant
struggle to be content. Disappointments, setbacks, and delays keep
hammering away at us. Apart from Christ, we’d quickly trip and
stumble our way into bitterness and entitlement. After all, this world
tells us that we “deserve to be happy,” and it’s easy to buy into that
mindset. But in Christ,I move my eyes off the things I don’t have, the
frustrations that surround me, and I put them where they need to be.
Paul’s words from prison show this spiritual truth in action: “I know
what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have
learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether
well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” (Philippians
4:12). How can we have this type of contentment? By turning our
attention from what we think we need to the only thing that truly
matters: “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly
Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his
righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
(Matthew 6:32–33). After all, my hope isn’t in what I have or don’t have
here on earth. My hope is in Christ: “But godliness with contentment is
great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take
nothing out of it.” (1 Timothy 6:6–7). Jesus give me the strength to see
beyond my present circumstances and to trust in Him to provide
everything I truly need.