The Joy of the Journey
Total Victory
As a Christian, one of the key teachings guiding our faith issurrendering our battles to the Lord Jesus. It doesn’t matter what these battles are, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional; we must learn to surrender them to Christ. This truth stems from the Word of God, which tells us we are not meant to bear our burdens alone but rather to find strength and support in God. It is written in 1 Peter 5:6-8, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” By entrusting our struggles to Christ, we acknowledge our limitations and embrace the power of faith to overcome the battles we face every day.
Though we find true strength and support when we give our battles to Christ, the Word of God also tells us that we are to turn to our brothers and sisters for help. The Apostle Paul tells us in Galatians 6:2 to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When we fight battles, turning to the body of Christ is an important part of gaining victory! The body of Christ refers to the community of believers who come together to hear the Word, worship, and fellowship. We must learn to carry our burdens to Christ and our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are reminded that we are not isolated individuals struggling alone but part of a larger family united in faith and love through the cross of Jesus. This sense of unity can provide comfort, encouragement, and practical help in times of need. Through prayer, fellowship, and ministry, we can lean on one another and share the burden of our struggles.
Surrendering our battles to Christ involves aligning our thoughts and perspectives with the teachings of Jesus. When faced with challenges or conflicts, we can seek guidance and wisdom from the words of scripture and the example set by Christ. We can find clarity and direction in battles by meditating on His teachings of love, forgiveness, and compassion. Rather than relying solely on our own limited understanding, we can open ourselves to the infinite wisdom of God and trust in his plan for our lives.
Finally, giving our battles to Christ means surrendering control and trusting in the divine power at work within us. The Holy Spirit offers comfort, strength, and guidance in times of trouble. By surrendering to the spirit of Christ, we invite transformation and renewal into our lives. We can draw upon the power of faith to overcome fear, doubt, and despair, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles. Through prayer, meditation, and devotion to studying God’s Word, we can cultivate a deeper connection to His divine presence and let go of our need for control.
In practicing the art of surrender, Christians learn to release their worries and anxieties into the hands of a loving and all-powerful God. By entrusting their battles to the Lord, whether it is a battle in the body, mind, or spirit, believers can find peace, strength, and hope amid life’s challenges. Through the church’s support,the wisdom of scripture, and the power of faith, we can conquer our fears and emerge stronger on the other side. By surrendering to Christ, we will discover a source of strength that surpasses human understanding and find joy in knowing that we are never alone in our struggles.
Philippians 1:19 “for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance,”
Pastor Phil Minter began his ministry in 1989 as a freshman in college. He received his degree in theology and ministry in 1992. During his time in college and after graduation he traveled conducting revivals, youth camps, and conferences in many states and countries. He lived in Athens, Greece for a short time where he aided in the mission efforts throughout Europe. He returned to the United States where he continued to minister in the USA and Canada. In 1994 he would move back to Georgia and travel the state speaking at various events. Phil married Tina Flowers in 1996 where they began their pastoral ministry in Jesup, Georgia. In 1999 they moved to Trion, Georgia, where they presently pastor Harvest Worship Center. Pastor Phil has a lifetime commitment to Chattooga County and the surrounding areas. Pastor Phil still travels (although limited due to his pastoral commitments) to preach and teach; Revivals, Camps, and, Conferences. His heart is driven by the great commission of Matthew 28. Reaching souls for Christ is and will remain his primary focus!