There are things we cannot control, like our past, our genetics, other people’s actions and our external circumstances.  While we may not have control over the circumstances life throws at us, we always have the ability to choose our responses and attitudes. This week, we will see how important it is to refuse a victim mentality, which blames others or your circumstances for your state of mind and keeps you wallowing in self-pity, and instead see yourself as a victor in Christ. 

 

Put It Into Practice: When you experience unpleasant situations this week, ask these questions: “What is the hidden opportunity within this situation?” “Am I choosing to be a victim or a victor?”

 

Day 1      2 Corinthians 2:14-16

Reflect: How would you paraphrase verse 14? How can this passage help to transform a person’s mindset from victim to victor? How and to whom are you spreading the aroma of Christ? 

Apply:   Contemplate the imagery of triumph in Christ and how God leads us in victory. How can adopting a victor mentality change the way we approach challenges in life? 

Pray:      Lord, thank You that You are leading us in Your great victory parade and using us to bring the fragrance of Christ to every place. As a living sacrifice, may I always triumph to Your praise and glory.

 

Day 2      1 Samuel 13:8-12 

Reflect: What is underlying Saul’s response to Samuel regarding his disobedience? How do you see a victim mentality in his situation? What does God expect in place of blame? Why? 

Apply:    How easy is it for you to admit you are wrong and take responsibility for your actions? How does recognizing a divine calling on our lives help us move beyond a victim mentality? 

Pray:      God, may I reject a victim mindset and instead of dwelling on blame, take responsibility for my life. Renew my thinking and give me courage knowing that You are with me every step of the way.

 

Day 3      Ruth 1:15-21

Reflect: What do you think the women in Bethlehem thought of Naomi’s response in verses 20-21? What about Ruth? Do you think she was a victim? Why or why not? What would God say?

Apply:    Can you identify a situation where you felt like a victim? How might viewing that situation as an opportunity to be a victor change your perspective? 

Pray:       Father, forgive me for the times when, like Naomi, I’ve found myself in deep distress and defeated. Like Ruth, may I demonstrate the devotion and joy of being Yours and abiding in the one true and living God.

 

Day 4      Genesis 50:14-21

Reflect: How was Joseph able to speak these words? Hardships can make us stronger. How can we view our trials as opportunities for growth and transformation in our spiritual journey?

Apply:    While we can’t control our circumstances, we can control our responses. Can you think of a personal experience where choosing your response made a difference? Share it! 

Pray:       God, rather than reacting impulsively to situations, grant me wisdom to respond in a godly  way. Thank You that Your grace is sufficient no matter what I face.

 

Day 5     1 John 5:3-5     

Reflect: Describe how our faith gives us victory over the world. What does it mean to walk as a victor instead of a victim, and why is this distinction important? How obedient are you? 

Apply:    How does knowing Jesus, the Victor, influence the way you live and make up your mind? Do you have a supportive community that encourages growth and victory in Christ? 

Pray:      God, continue to strengthen my faith and help me to always trust in You, even in the midst of trials and challenges. Thank you for your unfailing love and for the victory that is mine through Christ.