Victory in Obedience

1 Corinthians 15:55-58
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
57But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Sin brings with it the stink of death - not only eternal, spiritual death, but also a daily poisoning of our conscience, spirit and mind. However in Christ we have been given victory over sin and death. This victory does not come without a battle or a fight - it is not a free pass out from under the strength of the Law. Instead, victory comes when by the grace of God through the gift of Christ crucified and risen, we have strength to obey the law. We are made alive daily through steadfast obedience to Christ. Our labor is not about a life to come (salvation) but about overcoming today in this life (regeneration/sanctification). I have been given abundant life today because Christ died my death, took my sting and granted me the strength to obey the law. Praise be to God.

Father, make me steadfast, obedient, immovable and confident in Your work in and through me. Amen.

Psalm 145:9
"The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works."