Often, when we struggle with things like addiction or long-standing sin, we grow discouraged because we feel like we will never beat it. We make progress, but then we backslide, and the devil whispers in our ear that we’re just too broken and messed up to change. In fact, this is how he gains a foothold in our lives. When we listen to his constant fatalistic commentary, he convinces us to give up on ourselves, and that’s when we get in trouble. Once we’re running with the ball of self-defeat, we’re tempted to believe that our Heavenly Father feels as negatively about us as we do, and our view of Him begins to revolve around a lie. However, I’m here to tell you today that contrary to what you’ve been taught or told, your mistakes will not become your master! Your Savior is for you — not against you — and He is cheering you on to the finish line. He never gives up on you, and He is rooting for you to have unthinkable success. The Bible says that you are surrounded by the faithful saints of God who’ve finished the race before you and that they’re standing on the sidelines, even now, encouraging you to persist. As you fix your eyes on Jesus, who waits with a crown of glory at the goal post, His vision inspires you to keep moving ahead. Yes, the battle may be long, but He will never leave you nor forsake you, and His love will break every chain and destroy every stronghold!

My friend, you are more than a conqueror because of your Savior. While your flesh is weak, your spirit is strong, and you have in your possession everything you need to live a healthy, flourishing, and free life in Him. Though your enemy seeks to eclipse your vision of victory, it’s already in your hands. When you put one foot in front of the other and refuse to give up, you are taking hold of greater glory each day. As you look to Him for strength moment-by-moment, your struggles and mistakes are overcome by His amazing grace!