Patterns of Defeat

Ephesians 5:15-16

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

Reflections

Redeeming time is a serious consideration as we journey through life. When we endure trauma or hardship, what does our life reflect? Do we show defeat or do we walk in confidence? When circumstances overwhelm us, do we give up and say there is no point in trying? Some days, even putting one foot in front of the other feels pointless. So why do we strive to keep going?

In John 16, Jesus warned His disciples that they would face hardships, rejection, and even death (v. 2). Then, He told them that He—the Messiah they trusted—would be leaving them (v. 5-6). They had envisioned an uprising where He would reign supreme and they would share in His victory. Their efforts to follow Him felt like they were leading to triumph, but now He is giving them the message of defeat. Can you imagine their crushing disappointment? Not only would people reject their message, but their Savior would no longer be with them? Everything they had believed and hoped for seemed to shatter.

However, Jesus outlined a plan that still applies to us today. Though He would no longer be with them physically, God’s presence would remain. The Holy Spirit would come and guide them into all truth (v. 5-15). Jesus told them to take heart—to walk in peace, not defeat, even in pain and sorrow (v. 33). He reminded them that He had already won the ultimate victory—their faith was not in vain, and their trust remained secure.

These same truths apply to us today. Does your life reflect defeat or trust in Jesus’ victory? Can you say there is quiet peace and confident joy in Christ amid your difficulties? Are you holding fast to His truth, walking in faith? The Holy Spirit did come and remains with us. He is our source of strength and hope. We are not alone, and we are not defeated (2 Timothy 1:13-14).

It’s easy to grieve what our dream could have been. But, we can redeem the time by focusing on His presence and work in us even now.

Are you willing to release what should have been and embrace what He still has for you?

Prayer

Lord, please give me discernment and a humble heart to evaluate the reality of my patterns of trust and the confidence in You. Help me walk in a knowing that you are not done, but are writing an even greater story for me.