Was it Defeat or Victory?

Was it Defeat or Victory?

Have you ever been in a totally hopeless situation with all the makings of assured defeat? Whether a failed marriage, a lost job, a relational rift, or even a major health problem, it’s highly probable that we would feel that all is lost. But, in my nearly 50 years of walking with the Lord Jesus,  I have learned that He somehow, miraculously, shines a ray of hope into hopeless situations. It may not be according to our way or within the parameters of our time, but in His supernatural way of Fathering His children. He sees us, loves us, cares for us, and does what’s best for us in every situation. Oftentimes, it requires hindsight to embrace this truth, since in the moment, the pain of loss or correction can be difficult to bear.

Perhaps Haddon Robinson’s observation regarding the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ provides insight. “No ultimate victory comes except from the grave of apparent defeat.” This is the exact picture of the three days from Good Friday to Easter Sunday. Jesus died, and even His faithful followers thought all was lost. They literally witnessed “the grave of apparent defeat.” Three days later, they witnessed the ultimate victory when the dead Christ breathed again and rose from the grave!

This Easter season, when you acknowledge the tragedy of the crucifixion on Good Friday, please take a moment to reflect on something Paul David Tripp said regarding Jesus’s death and resurrection: “The most horrible thing that ever happened was the most wonderful thing that ever happened.” May you experience the reality of God redeeming some of your worst moments and turning them into something beautiful. He is more than able.

Let us Walk in His Way.

Dear Risen Lord Jesus, please help us fix our eyes on You, on the One who rose from the dead and is seated on the throne next to Your Father in Heaven, even as we pray. Remind us not to “judge a play by its second act,” as Haddon Robinson said, but to TRUST you increasingly in every situation, even when it seems hopeless. Thank You for loving us so well. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.

by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel

author of “Walk in His Way” for

Carry the Light Ministries