The scar on my knee reminds me of a nasty fall from my first bicycle. While Mother bandaged my wound and Dad straightened my bike's twisted handlebars, they reassured me that I could be a victor over this mishap rather than a victim. They were right! I'm much older now, but during adversity I still need to remember that I can be an overcomer.

Jesus gave us grounds for good cheer and confidence by declaring, "I have overcome the world" (Jn. 16:33). He accomplished this by His death and resurrection, and secured the victory for all generations. Preacher and author Watchman Nee (1903-1972) wrote, "Oh, that we might learn the undefeatedness of God!"

According to Jesus, it's possible to experience His "undefeatedness" in every adversity. Paul testified, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Rom. 8:37). And the apostle John wrote, "Whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith" (1 Jn. 5:4).

How are you facing life's trials these days? As a defeated victim? Or as an overcoming victor? Hear Jesus lovingly say, "Be of good cheer!" (Jn. 16:33). He has overcome all these things, and so can you--through Him!  — Joanie Yoder