Two weeks ago, I was held at gunpoint by two men.
Six days later, Pastor Rick asked at the start of his sermon on Revelation 13, “Do you believe there is such a thing as evil in the world today?” Through tears, I thought, Yes. I stared it in the face. The sermon ultimately culminated with our great hope that God is in control. Eternal Victory is the Lord’s.
After experiencing a fear that is almost indescribable…like a trash compactor crushing my chest and throat…I’ve had to reckon with determining if I truly believe God is in control. That the victory is already His. If I hadn’t escaped physical or sexual assault, or being shot, would God still be Victorious? Would I, ultimately?
I’ve reflected on all the God-fearing women whose stories I’ve heard, read, or experienced. The loss of a child, spouse, parent, friend, loved one, and even the loss of their own lives. The loss of health, independence, safety, financial security, or an experience of injustice. These stories of strength, even amid their grief, sorrow, and fear, raise one loud, beautiful, unwavering voice to heaven and to the world that says, “YES! VICTORY IS THE LORD’S!”
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33
“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” - 1 John 5:4
“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.” - Proverbs 21:31
The influence of these women and the testimony of Scripture has given me the fortitude to remember who God is. Our Champion. Our Savior. Our Object of Worship for Eternity.
Jehovah-Rapha, The Lord who Heals. (Exodus 15:25-27, Psalm 103:3)
Jehovah-Mekaddishkem, The Lord who sanctifies (Exodus 31:12, Hebrews 13:12)
Elohim, the all-powerful Creator (Genesis 1:1-3, Deuteronomy 10:17)
El Roi, the God who sees me (Genesis 16:11-14, Psalm 139:7-12)
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” - Romans 8:31-35
If our Lord holds the victory, and I am in Him through the sacrifice of Christ, then no matter the outcome of that day or any other day, I – no, WE - share in His Victory too.
Meet the Author!
Ashley Otteson and her husband Garrett are blessed beyond measure to have found community at CRBC. Garrett serves on the Deacon Board and they have lead a Home Group for 5+ years, affectionately named “SundaysCool”. They’ve also spent time serving on the Welcome Team and Tech Team.
Professionally, Ashley is a Sales Leader for a large Global Technology Company where she has been for 15 years. She enjoys watching sports, eating delicious food, deep conversation, and living no further than a 7-minute drive from her sisters and parents.