Setbacks Birth Victory
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Revelation 20 and Psalm 143 (NIV)
(Timothy Chan from SWR Comm)
READ:
Revelation 20:1-6 and Psalm 143 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Revelation 20:1-6 tells us that Christ fulfills His promise to vindicate the people of God, binding and sealing Satan into the pit, and all nations are freed from Satan’s grip. Jesus and all Christians (1 Cor 15:22-23) who belong to Him reign for a thousand years.
Separately, in Psalm 143 (v.3-4), David clings on to God in fear and helplessness, as his enemy crushes him. In v7-8, he almost gives up and lets his enemy have their way, but he issues a final plea for God to demonstrate His steadfast love, teach him and provide a way out.
Finally, David calls upon God to protect and rescue him, a servant of God (v11-12).
APPLY:
Jesus warned of dark days in this fallen world and promised to be with us. I realise that to be a follower of Jesus, I need to identify with Jesus’s defeat of death and enter His victory. Only as I bear my cross can I comprehend His suffering, overcome sin and gain salvation through Him. Revelation reveals Jesus’ ultimate authority over all my circumstances; He wants me to trust Him and work out victory together.
DO:
I will remember that salvation and discipleship are not one-off events but must be pursued daily. I must remember to give thanks and trust Jesus more and more, and my faithfulness will blossom more when I am aware that Jesus is with me amid setbacks.
I will be mindful of opportunities in my daily activities to practise putting my trust in Jesus and witness Him walking with me. I must follow Jesus as my role model.
PRAY:
Jesus, You know my struggles. Please save me according to King David’s plea to You in Psalm 143. I pray for Your support in my difficulties and challenges. Help me to be sensitive to Your presence and give thanks for any assurance You show. May my faith multiply from such daily practices, as I remember Your victory and claim it.
