Solomon wrote, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecc. 12:13).
God says that this is what is expected of mankind. Those who seek to please God will heed these words of the “wise man.” It takes time and effort, things which many believe they don’t have enough of, but it is worth all the effort.
Peter tells that God has provided “… all things that pertain to life and godliness …” (II Peter 1:3). Christ was provided by God to die for the sins of mankind (John 3:16).
Man must see that it is in Christ that victory is to be found. This victory is greater than any man has ever accomplished for it is a victory over Satan and his attempts to destroy man’s soul.
God’s plan for mankind is found in the Bible. As one looks at the word of God, they find that baptism is necessary for it is how one “gets into Christ.”
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Gal. 3:27).
Paul wrote, “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:3, 4).
When one is baptized into Christ, he is a new creature (II Cor. 5:17), he has forgiveness of sin (Col. 1:14) and in Christ salvation and eternal life (II Tim. 2:10, I Jno. 5:11).
It is an amazing thought to realize that God has provided a way that the vilest sinner can be forgiven. God is merciful and gracious towards all who will obey him.
In Christ man can find victory. Paul was able to say, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (II Tim. 4:6-8).
Paul knew his reward awaited him. Everyone who seeks heaven for eternity should look to this great example of one who lived a life of service to God and was confident of his victory.
Paul realized something that all need to understand. He was in a battle that was for his soul. Paul knew that Satan wanted him, so he had to watch himself because he could overcome in battle.
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Cor. 9:27).
This great servant of God was cautious less he be overcome. What an example to all who strive to live the Christian life.
In Christ, victory is possible. One must believe that Christ is the Son of God, turn to God and away from sin, be willing to confess Christ before men, and then get into Christ through baptism. Then they must remain faithful to God all the days of their life.
Obey God while opportunity presents itself and gain the victory.