Conquering our Thoughts

Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; (1 Pe 1:13)

The battleground for spiritual victory for a follower of Jesus is found between the ears. Living in victory or living in defeat hinges on the ability to conquer the thoughts we entertain.

Apostle Peter uses the word  "wherefore” to remind his readers of his previous teaching of the work of the gospel in the lives of God’s people. Peter previously proclaimed Jesus through His “abundant mercy” had given hope to the people of God.

Peter said the work of the Holy Spirit had “begotten us again unto a lively hope.” Not just hope but a hope that was alive. This hope was made alive “by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

Jesus Holds the Power over Death

The power of the Gospel is held not only in the death of Jesus but in His resurrection. Jesus holds the power over death and has granted all who have trusted in the Gospel the power to have a “lively hope” that would overpower the force of darkness in this world and the power of death in the next.

The hope belonging to a follower of Jesus in this world, as taught by Peter, is the power to live a life in victory even though we face troubles that are seemingly unconquerable. Regardless of the trouble we face, we are able to “greatly rejoice” because we know that this pilgrimage in the world is temporary.

Peter said, “Though now for a season if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations.” This is this power of hope. A follower of Jesus will pass from this world of sin, trouble, and death to the Kingdom of God.

Jesus comforting His followers in His upcoming death said:

 “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” (John 14:1-3).

Living in this world we often find ourselves in “manifold” troubles and tribulations. This alone will not overcome the hope of a born-again follower of Jesus. Knowing that we have the promise of Jesus’ preparation for us in His Father’s house is the power we have to live in victory in the midst of problems of this world.

What is the Outcome?

The Apostle Peter reminded his readers that the outcome of troubles and tribulations for God’s people is a gift and blessing:

“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” (1 Pe 1:7)

To trust in the grace of God to deliver you from the power of sin in this world and deliver you to the Father's house where Jesus has prepared your eternal abode is the power to live in victory.